James (Jim) Anthony Mangine, 66, of Columbia, passed away April 15th, 2023, in Summit from a brief battle with cancer.
He was born on March 18th, 1957 in Trenton to Joseph and Mary (Filipponi) Mangine. Jim was raised in Hamilton. He attended West Virginia University where he met and married his wife, Cheryl. They moved back to New Jersey in 1981 to be closer to his mother and raise their family.
Jim was a forest firefighter for 25 years in the New Jersey Forest Fire Service after a brief time with West Virginia Division of Forestry. He was an active member in the community where he served on the Knowlton Volunteer Fire Department, The Relief Association and was a member of the Search and Rescue teams of Warren County including High Angle Rescue.
Upon his retirement, he pursued his passion and started Triple Creek Farm and Nursery in Columbia where he specialized in arborvitaes and Christmas trees. During his retirement, Jim and fellow firefighting buddies enjoyed making wine that they lovingly called “Retired Guys Wine.” He was happiest outside. A few of his favorite activities were kayaking, fishing, hiking, playing Frisbee, making Friday night pizza, playing bocce and reading. Jim loved his family and dogs endlessly. Jim’s ideal end of each day would include a good meal, a homemade glass of wine and playing games with his family.
Jim is survived by his loving wife of almost 44 years, Cheryl. He is also survived by his three children, Jeremy Mangine (Ashley), Ashley Cattafi (Nick) and Cara Stokes (Bill) and his four grandchildren, Avery, Ellie, Jett and Liam. He was predeceased by his brother Joseph and his parents.
A celebration of life is scheduled for later this spring on their farm in Columbia. Further details are to be announced.
Jim has been entrusted to the care of Newbaker Funeral Home.