THOMASTON – James Kevin LoRusso died peacefully at his home on Nov. 3, 2022, surrounded by his loving family. He was 70 years old.

Affectionally known as “Joe” by his family and friends, he was raised in Watertown, the first-born son of James B. and Mary Donahue LoRusso. James attended Watertown public schools and graduated from Porter & Chester Institute.

Jim loved all things mechanical especially gas-powered motors, vintage cars and motorcycles. His mechanical aptitude guided his career and his hobbies. His first job was as a paperboy followed by employment at Shell Service Station in Watertown, Brake Service Inc. in Waterbury, General Power Motors in Oakville, Shore’s Auto Parts in Waterbury, Lewis Engineering in Naugatuck among others. Over the years Jim’s focus on all things gas-powered shifted to all things computer, and retired from self-employment in computer repair and web design.

Jim was predeceased by Linda Bensavage, the love of his life and wife of 28 years. Together they had two sons, James and Michael. He was also predeceased by his parents, James B. LoRusso and Mary Donahue LoRusso, and his dog and loyal companion, chocolate lab Lilly. He was also predeceased by two cousins, David LaChance and Gregory Sacco.

Jim found joy being with his family and friends especially with the newest member of his family, 7-month-old granddaughter Everly James. He enjoyed gardening and cooking handmade Italian dishes, holiday specialties and grilling. Later in life, he became an avid reader and history buff. He enjoyed working crossword puzzles and watching Jeopardy. Jim loved animals and was a willing pet sitter.

Jim is survived by his sister, Kathleen Gostanian (Gregory) of South Carolina; a brother, Donald (Marilyn); a sister, Eileen Poulin (Mark); a daughter, Kerensa Salvietti (Michael) of Connecticut; two sons, James (Cassandra) and Michael, of Connecticut; a stepdaughter, Julie Bradshaw of Connecticut; four grandchildren, Abigail DeAngelis, Vincent, Julien and Everly; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and a lifelong friend, Brian Rose of North Carolina.

The family would like to thank Dr. Madhavi Gorusu and the nurses and staff of the Hartford HealthCare Infusion Center at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital for the excellent and enduring care they provided James throughout his courageous fight for life.

Family and friends are asked to meet at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 669 Platt Road, Watertown, for a graveside service and celebration of life on Wednesday, Dec. 7 at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you keep Jim’s legacy of lending a helping hand alive with random acts of kindness big or small as opportunities present themselves and/or by donating to an animal rescue or shelter of your choice.