James J. Wolfe

James Joseph Wolfe, 81, passed away peacefully at home on September 11, 2023. He was born on January 29, 1942 to Margaret Downey. He was blessed to have been loved and raised by both George Dambmann and James Hodnett. He grew up in Brooklyn and graduated from high school at the age of 16 and then studied English at St. John’s University. For twenty years he served honorably as an NYPD police officer. He spoke a lot about his time of being a police officer during his final days, and we know that this was something he was extremely proud of; we are as proud of him and his service. After his retirement he had a second career as a rural letter carrier and union secretary with the postal service, and he drove the Blue Eagle with as much pride. He was affectionately known to all as Dad, Pop Pop, Jimmy, and Tom Cat. 

He was actively involved in parish life at both St. Ann’s in Staten Island during his younger years, and more recently at St. Christopher’s in Red Hook, NY. Many people will remember their time with Jim either on a softball field, a basketball court (well into his 60s!), or sharing a cold beverage with his many friends. He was a passionate and skilled carpenter and took joy in his many projects. Above all Jim loved his family, and our memories together of our Dad and Pop Pop will be those that endure time. 

On September 23, 1961 Jim married Lorraine Reinhardt in Greenpoint, NY and she survives him at home with their children and grandchildren: Kevin Wolfe and his son Ryan Wolfe, Lenore O’Callaghan Rathjen and her son Brodie Rathjen, and James and Therese Wolfe and their sons Nolan, Seamus and Trevor Wolfe. On September 23, 1997 Jim and Lorraine lost their youngest son, Darren, at the young age of 17. We are comforted in our belief that Jim now has his arms lovingly around his son. Jim was also predeceased by his son-in-law, Andrew O’Callaghan. To borrow an idea from one of his favorite poems, he, Darren, and Andrew are now putting together links from our broken chain. 

Our family would like to thank Hudson Valley Hospice; and we also have a special thank you to Lenore, Bopchie, and Brodie- you are angels who provided remarkable care and provided Dad with dignity and respect during his final time here with us. We will be forever grateful. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at noon on Saturday, September 16, 2023 from St. Christopher’s Church in Red Hook, NY and burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Pine Plains.

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