James V. Sauta

It is with deep sadness that the family of James (Jim) Sauta, of Stow Massachusetts, announce his passing on the 12^th of December 2023 at 94 years of age. Jim will be deeply missed by his beloved wife of 71 years, Betty, his children Lynne Sauta and her husband Greg, Kevin Sauta and his partner Rhonda, Tom Sauta and his wife Sandy, Paula Shirley and her husband Steve; grandchildren James Bassett, David Bassett and his fiancée Deanna, Michael Sauta and his partner Sarah, Paul Sauta, Daniel Sauta and his wife Hilary along with Jim’s great-grandchild Charlie, Chrissie Morrison and her partner Tony, Kayla Morrison and her husband Jim; his brother Charles Sauta and his wife Jean, sisters Mary Allen and Connie Coffin as well as his many nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his brothers John and Richie Sauta, his sister Teresa Henderson and his grandson Richie Sauta.

Due to Jim’s big personality and easygoing cheerful disposition, he made friends easily everywhere he went. Jim was quick to step up to help those in need. His heart and arms were always open to embrace those of us who were fortunate to be part of his life. Along with Betty, their house was well known as the place where everyone was welcome. It was the norm for friends and family to just drop-by at any time for a cup of coffee, a slice of Betty’s banana bread and a good chat. He was the penultimate storyteller and loved reminiscing about the ‘old days’. Growing up, he worked on his parents farm in Hudson. As the oldest of 7 children, he had lots of stories to tell.

Though his family was undoubtedly Jim’s first love, he also loved his farm and tractors, the town of Stow and his country. Jim couldn’t resist tractors, which at one point numbered in the double digits, but according to him, each one had a specific purpose. In spring time, he could be found out in the greenhouse and fields starting his vegetables that were later sold at their roadside stand. Betty and Jim’s farm stand was not only a place to stop for fresh produce but also a chance to socialize, exchange recipes and catch up on the latest news.

Jim was involved in Stow politics for years. He did not hold back in voicing his opinions and was steadfast in making sure he was heard. Possibly his proudest moment was the dedication of the ‘new’ Stow Senior Center as he was integral in making this happen. He and Betty have both spent many hours happily volunteering their time at the Center.

Jim proudly served his country well as a member of the Coast Guard. Every time he visited a local Coast Guard base, he was treated with the utmost respect and interest in his experiences. Several years ago, Jim had the pleasure to spend the morning at the Coast Guard Museum in CT where his story was recorded. Several of his Coast Guard outfits were donated and are on exhibit there.

We were very fortunate to have had Jim with us for so long. He had a complicated medical history and outlasted all expectations. It is hard to know that we won’t hear his big laugh again, but we will be forever grateful to have had all these years with him.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at the Fowler-Kennedy Funeral Home at 42 Concord Street in Maynard, Mass, on Thursday, 21^st December 2023. Calling hours will be from 10:00 – 12:00. The service will begin at noon followed by the burial at Brookside Cemetery at 36 Gleasondale Road, Stow, Mass. A celebration reception will be held after burial, from 1:00 – 3:00 at the Council of Aging in Stow.

In lieu of flowers, the family would welcome memorial donations to the Stow Council on Aging and the Sterling Animal Shelter.