James Pardee VanValkenburgh
RICHMOND – James (Jim, Jimmy, Van, Vandy) Pardee VanValkenburgh of Richmond passed away Feb. 27, 2025. He was born June 19, 1942, to Joyce and Everett VanValkenburgh in Hartford, Conn.
He attended University of Maine in Orono 1960-65 followed by US Navy Flight School in Pensacola, Fla. This was followed by tour of duties in Vietnam 1960-65, including member of Apollo 11 spotter rescue crew.
Upon release from the Navy he worked for Alaska Airlines, followed by a 45 year career of commercial property management for his company, Fishman Properties, which he thoroughly enjoyed the rest of his life.
He was married to his lifelong best friend, Carolee Mains VanValkenburgh, for 48 years who passed away in 2016 from cancer. Carolee loved life and family. They loved time spent with family at Sunday River, Southwest Harbor and Papoose Pond.
He has shared the last eight years with companion, Joyce Gracie, enjoying their dogs and cats, kayaking, hiking, exploring Maine and Canada and spending time with friends.
He is survived by his children, James VanValkenburgh “Chip” and wife Vichitta (Fluke) of Bedford, NH, and their son Boone Shelley and husband Dan Magiera of Cranston, RI; and daughters Mikheala and Jackie; Jaymie and husband Garrett Andritz of Brookline, N.Y.; brother Mark and companion Denise Bonenfant Leifester of Lewiston, Maine.
A celebration of life will be announced at at a later date.
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