James A. Salem, 63

James Arthur Salem, 63, much-beloved long time resident and craftsman of Shelburne Falls, died suddenly on Saturday, August 18 while enjoying beautiful West County on his bicycle. Jim was born in Worcester to Carolyn (Byrnes) Salem and Ernest Salem. He attended schools in North Brookfield and graduated from Bowdoin College. Jim had a long career as a potter before obtaining his CPA degree. He was a comptroller for Deerfield Academy, Deerfield, MA.

His personal achievements include climbing Mercederio Mountain in Argentina at the age of 60, and in the last few weeks canoed the Connecticut and Allagash Rivers. He was the founder of the local Polar Bear Club, jumping into the Deerfield River on New Years Day. Among the most transformative experiences in Jim’s life was his work on Navajo and Warm Springs Indian Reservations. On the Navajo Reservation, he taught accounting and served as Interim Vice Prisdent of Dine’ College.

In addition to his parents in West Brookfield, Jim is survived by his wife, Jacqueline DeBoer Salem; two children, Sara Salem, of Warren, RI, and Clayton Salem, of Greenfield, MA; a young granddaughter Isabel Coes; and four siblings, Timothy Salem, Michael Salem, Christine Dmuchovsky, and Carol Salem. He also leaves many dear friends.

A Celebration of Life service will take place Thursday at 10:30 a.m at Trinity Church, Severance St., Shelburne Falls. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family. Immediately following the service, a reception will be held at Deerfield Academy.

There are no calling hours.

Memorial contributions in Jim’s name may be sent to the American Indian College Fund, 8333 Greenwood Blvd., Denver, CO 80221 or the Franklin Land Trust. Smith - Kelleher Funeral Home of Shelburne Falls is assisting the family.