James E. Dundon, Sr.

James E. Dundon, Sr. 88, of Norwich, died surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital.

Born on January 3, 1936, in Binghamton, NY, he was a son of the late William and Wilma (Roper) Dundon. James graduated from Binghamton High School and then served in the Korean Conflict from 1954 – 1957 with an honorable discharge. 

James had a lifelong passion for trains, a love that sparked when his uncle gifted him a Lionel train set for Christmas at the age of five. This early fascination led him to follow in the footsteps of his parents, grandfathers, and uncle, all of whom worked for the railroad. Jim proudly served as an engineer for the Lackawanna Railroad, based in Binghamton, for 42 years. Over the years, Lackawanna became Erie, then Conrail, and later Metro-North, where Jim continued his career. 

His love for trains extended beyond his profession. Jim was one of the founding members of the Bullthistle Model Railway Museum in Norwich, NY, where he shared his passion with fellow enthusiasts. He also delighted in passing this love on to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Jim took great joy in displaying his model train sets, letting them operate the trains on the tracks, and recounting wonderful stories of his time working on the railways. 

Jim’s legacy of dedication, love of trains, storytelling, friendship and love of family will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. 

James married Mary Famolaro, of Norwich, who survives. He is also survived by his children, William (Dana) Dundon, James Jr. (Debbie), Debbie (Gary) Beaton, Robert (Barbara) Dundon, Kathleen Babicz, Thomas (Jeynthie) Wakeman, Kathleen Wakeman, Timothy (Anita) Wakeman, Rita Vaughn, and Nancy (John) Calcutti; many grandchildren; great-great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. 

A private graveside service for James will be held on with full Military Honors at Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City, NY. 

Contributions in his memory may be may to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted with the Wilson Funeral Home.