James “Jim” A. Finn, 87, of West Salem and formerly the D.C. Area, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on January 8, 2016 in his home. He was born in Buffalo, New York on November 3, 1928 to Clarence and Mildred (Fath) Finn. Jim married Grace (Hortage) Finn on April 24, 1954 St. Matthew’s Catholic Church in Buffalo.

Jim enjoyed building model trains as well as playing and writing music, including playing in various community bands, most recently with the Grumpy Old Men and the Da Capo Band. Jim served in the U.S. Navy from 1948 to 1953. He retired from The Voice of America, as a Broadcast Engineer, after more than 20 years.

Jim is survived by his wife, Grace Finn; children, Donna Rutkowski, Patricia (Tom) Wilson, Marie (Harry Cepura) Finn, Kevin (Karen) Finn; grandchildren, Michael Rutkowski, Kati (Max Feldman) Rutkowski, Grace Rutkowski, Jacob Wilson, Raena (Nils) Housker, Gina Wilson; great-granddaughter, Allie Stahl; and many dear relatives and friends.

A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, January 13, 2016, at 10:30 AM at the St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 210 West Hamlin St., West Salem. The Rev. Douglas Robertson will celebrate. Visitation will be held one prior to mass at the church.  Coulee Region Cremation Group and Funeral Home is assisting the family.