Obituary of James Ivan Marion

JAMES IVAN MARION December 5, 1947 - February 22, 2015 Grahamsville, NY James Ivan Marion, 67, of Grahamsville, NY passed away Sunday, February 22, 2015 in the comfort of his home with his family. James was born in Cortland, NY on December 5, 1947 to Ivan and Eleanor Marion. James is survived by his wife of 47 years, Cheryl Portzline Marion; his daughters: Christina Marion (Agustin Martinez) of Hilton Head SC, and Renee Viningre and husband Lejon Viningre of Napanoch, NY; and his grandson and buddy, Nathaniel Viningre whose life he most enjoyed being apart of. James is also survived by his father, Ivan Marion of Bradenton, FL and his sister, Connie Rejman of Venice Center, NY. He was predeceased by his mother, Eleanor Marion. He will be missed and has been a special part in the lives of many nieces, nephews, aunts, and in-laws. James was a graduate of Cornell University and received his Masters in Environmental Education at SUNY Plattsburgh. He worked for the Sullivan County Cooperative Extension as a 4-H agent, and the Frost Valley YMCA as the Director of Environmental Education. James worked for the New York State Department of Corrections as the Natural Resource Director where he designed and established composting and recycling programs as well as managing the farms for all New York State Correctional Facilities. He was an outgoing and personable friend to many. James took pride in his achievements and participation in various organizations. He served on the Sullivan County Cornell Cooperative Extension Board, Tri-Valley Central School Board, NYS Outdoor Education Association, and the John Burroughs Woodchuck Lodge Historical Site. In 1994 James was named the National Recycler of the Year. He will be remembered for his wealth of knowledge, admiration of nature, and his friendly personality as well as being a great dancer. Celebration of his life will be private. Donations may be made to the Islesford Congregational Church, PO Box 111, Islesford, ME 04646 or the charity of one's choice. "If I were to name the three most precious resources of life, I should say books, friends, and nature...." --- John Burroughs Services will be private and at the convenience of the family.