Obituary of James John Bozlinski

James “Jim” John Bozlinski passed away on January 16, 2024, at Vass Brothers Medical Center with his family by his side. He was the proud son of two native Ukrainians, John James and Alice Kumko Bozlinski. He was born on May 15, 1931, in Kingston, Pennsylvania.

It was with tremendous honor and pride that Jim supported his country by serving in the US Navy during the Korean War. His keen analytical abilities led him to be chosen to work with the National Security Agency in Washington DC. He was always in awe of being fortunate enough to meet two US sitting Presidents: Truman and Eisenhower. In 2023, , Jim returned with his daughter on Flight #29 with Hudson Valley Honor Flight to finally see the Korean War Memorial. This amazing day allowed Jim to meet new friends such as James “Pat” Patterson. Most important to note Jim and his daughter Catherine made once in a lifetime memories which will be cherished forever.

After his honorable discharge and with the prompting of his mother, Jim pursued a career in Education. He graduated with a BA Degree from Kings College in 1958 and earned a certificate in Teaching in 1960. His first job as a teacher was in Galena Maryland. His love for his students motivated him to eventually earn a master’s degree from the University of Alabama. Jim relocated to Long Island NY to teach history and coach Lacross at Freeport High School, while he also earned a certificate in Guidance Counseling. In 1973 he moved his young family to Dutchess Count to become the Assistant Principal of Van Wyck Junior High School. He quickly became known as the popular “Mr. Boz” and for years to come would continue to receive touching letters from previous students and co-workers explaining how he helped to change their lives. He retired in 1986 and then worked for Camo Pollution Control until 1998.

Jim was previously married to Margaret (Stevens) Bozlinski. He will be greatly missed by his son John James (Helene) and daughter Catherine; along with grandsons Joseph (Vicky), Sebastian “James”, Spencer and Cameron. Near and dear to his heart are also his extended family from North Bridge Street, especially his adopted brothers L.D, Robert and Trevor. He was predeceased by his son Guy Gram and son in-law Stefano.

Jim was a dedicated member of St. Mary’s Church Poughkeepsie, a steady fixture every Sunday 7:30 Mass sitting in the last pew, first seat on the left. He found peace talking with Maria and Robert and had a great love for Steve and his mother. “When you go to Church good things happen” became the corner stone of his life.

Jim was a member of the American Legion Post #1466 and a member of the Polish Citizen Club of Poughkeepsie. He enjoyed going to casinos and riding in his fancy sports cars throughout his life. His favorite activities included BS ing and grilling while listening to the Stylistics and Lou Rawls with his extended family at N Bridge Street. He cherished his independence to buy a cup of coffee at the corner store and then head to the river or to the FDR Historic site to catch some sun and visit with his daughter Catherine and dog Eve.

To say Jim was grateful for his good health at 92 years old is an understatement. His family would like to thank the VA Hospital Health Care System and staff at Vassar Brothers Medical Hospital ( especially Catherine RN) for the quality care and compassion provided throughout his life. The family also wants to express how grateful they are to his friends at N Bridge Street, who will forever remain in their hearts.

Even on Jim’s final day of life he was still sharp as a tack and displayed his sense of humor. He mentioned that his 92^nd year of life was the most amazing year which included creating numerous silly adventures with his daughter, reminiscing with his son John and laughing and bickering with his friends and loved ones. Jim stated that he was ready to get to Heaven to meet Jesus, see his loved ones who have already passed and pet his childhood dog Giner and his beloved cats Bandit and Casino.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to Hudson Vally Honor Flight in Memory of Jim and Flight #29.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10am Saturday February 3, 2024 at St. Mary’s Church Poughkeepsie, New York. Military Honors will conclude the services.