James Evans, 70, passed away on Tuesday, October 12, 2010 at St. Luke's Hospital. James was born in Utica, the son of Morton and Freda (Meyer) Evans and was educated in the Utica Schools. He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1962. In Utica in 1963 James was united in marriage to Mary Ellen Collins a blessed union of 47 years. For many years until his retirement in 1994 he was employed as Chief Deputy Clerk of the Northern District of New York Federal District Court. James was a 35 year member of the Maynard Volunteer Fire Department. serving as President in 1983, 1984, and as a Fire Commissioner from 1997-2006. James was the recipient of the 4th Annual Lifetime Achievement Award for a lifetime of service to the fire Department and the community. James was a friend to all, never taking life too seriously. He helped those around him find humor in all of life's situations. Though he had many health challenges, he never sought sympathy or attention for himself, preferring instead to find joy and humor in each and every day. He handled his challenges with dignity and courage until his final moments. James is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen, three daughters and a son-in-law; Michele A. Evans, Marcy, Denise J. and John Daly, Rochester, and Susan E. Evans, Marcy, two grandchildren, Grace Daly and Michael Daly both of Rochester, two sister and a brother-in-law; Mary Lou and Joseph White, Marcy and his twin sister, Joan Evans, Marcy, and many nieces, nephews along with his beloved pets, Katie and Francesca. James was predeceased by his son Michael in 1998, and four brothers, Norbert, Bernard, Mark and Paul. Mr. Evans funeral will be held on Saturday, October 16, 2010 at 10:15 from the Heintz Funeral Home, 408 Herkimer Rd., North Utica and at 11:00 from Our Lady of The Rosary Church, New Hartford. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Whitesboro. Calling hours at the funeral home will be on Friday from 4-8. In lieu of flowers those so wishing may make donations to the Maynard Volunteer Fire Department or the Stevens - Swan Humane Society. Maynard Fire Department will meet at the funeral home Friday evening at 7:30.