James F. Mason (Jim) 81, died Tuesday January 29, 2013 at his residence. He was born August 8, 1931 in Orange, NJ the son of the late Edward and Mary (OBrien) Mason. Jim attended West Orange High School and then entered into the National Guard and served in the Korean Conflict with the United States Army being Honorably Discharged in 1952. He retired from DeCamp Bus Lines as a professional bus driver, where he drove for many years between New Jersey and New York City. After moving to Vermont in 1986 he worked for Fitz Vogt Food Service in Rutland where he delivered meals to seniors throughout the state. Jim was a gentle, easy going man with a hearty laugh. He appreciated good clothes and always made sure he looked his best. He also had many pets throughout his life. Animals as well as people were drawn to him. Some of Jim's fondest memories were deep sea fishing with his mother and father at the Jersey Shore and visiting his Grandparent's bungalow in Rockaway Point, NY. Jim was a member of the Knights of Columbus in New Jersey and the American Legion in Fair Haven. Most recently Jim joined the Poultney American Legion. He took great pride in representing the American Legion Color Guard in local parades. He is survived by his two sisters, Rosemary McManus and her husband James, of Poultney and Margaret Ellen Meyer of Morris Plains, NJ, also by many nieces, nephews and loving cousins in New Jersey. He was predeceased by his parents and a niece Dawn Michelle McManus. A graveside service will be held in the spring in Cedar Grove Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Poultney Rescue Squad at P.O. Box 76, Poultney, VT 05764. .