Obituary: James William Crimmins, 88, Of Wilton

Information and Photo Courtesy Bouton Funeral Home

WILTON, CT — James William Crimmins, known affectionately as "Jim" to those who knew him best, gracefully departed this life on May 11, 2024, surrounded by the warmth of his devoted family. Born on July 22, 1935, in Detroit, Michigan, to David Hastings Crimmins and Ethel Reiss Crimmins, Jim's journey through life was marked by love, adventure, and an indomitable spirit.

Growing up amidst the challenges of the Great Depression in Motown, Jim's towering stature earned him the nickname "Big Jim." He embraced his heritage, a beautiful blend of Irish and German descent, with a passion for basketball and a love for automobiles that would define his youth. Alongside his cherished brothers, Dave, Tom, and their mischievous dog Rex, Jim's childhood was enriched by summers spent sailing on the Saint Clair River and working on cars during the heyday of American automotive innovation.

After graduating from the University of Detroit with a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering in 1957, Jim embarked on a remarkable engineering career, characterized by innovation and ingenuity. His work at Sperry Gyroscope in Great Neck, New York, paved the way for a series of achievements, including over 20 U.S. patents, marking him as a pioneer in his field.

In 1960, Jim's life was forever changed when he met the enchanting Elaine Kathleen McPhillips at a church dance in New York City. Their love story unfolded with the beauty of a fairy tale, culminating in a marriage in the spring of 1961. Together, they embraced the joys and challenges of raising their four beloved sons, James, Mark, Terence, and John, in Norwalk, Connecticut.

In 1968, Jim's career path led him to Wilton, where he and Elaine built the house of their dreams at Nutmeg Lane, on a subdivision of Faulkner’s Farm. As he transitioned from corporate America to entrepreneurship, Jim's innovative spirit flourished, leaving an indelible mark with inventions such as the pioneering VoiceCaster speaker phone and the Space Shuttle's internal infrared communication system.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Jim found solace and joy in the simple pleasures of life. He reveled in sailing adventures on Long Island Sound, cherished friendships cultivated in Norwalk and Wilton, and delighted in family and friend gatherings filled with laughter and love.

Jim's greatest joy in life was his role as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Alongside Elaine, he created a legacy of love and warmth, exemplified by the cherished memories shared with his grandchildren, Kenneth, Catherine, and Carolyn. Family Christmases on Nutmeg Lane were marked by spirited family and friend conversations, by the roaring stone fireplace.

Following Elaine's passing in 2013, Jim remained steadfast in his love and devotion to his family, holding fast to the cherished memories they had created together. His spirit now lives on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

James William Crimmins is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Elaine, and his dear brothers, David and Thomas. He is survived by his sons James (Abby), Mark (Mari), Terence (Geralyn), John, and his adoring grandchildren. James William Crimmins, a man whose kindness, intellect, and unwavering love touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In honor of Jim's memory, the family requests that donations be made to The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

Viewing hours will be at Bouton Funeral Home in Georgetown, CT from 9 - 10 a.m. May 16, with a Mass to follow at 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church, also in Georgetown.

The funeral will be a private ceremony with only close family members present.