James R. Tuite

(1935 – 2015)

Jim Tuite passed away September 1, 2015 from liver cancer. He passed peacefully at home, surrounded by family.

Jim was born to Anna and Martin Tuite on January 7, 1935 in the Bronx. He was the youngest of their 6 children. Jim leaves behind his beloved wife of 56 years, Winifred Mae Keane, and 3 sons and 4 grandsons; his oldest son Jim, who lives in Novato, his second son Chris, who lives with his wife Pamela in Washougal, Wa. with 2 grandsons Dillon and Ryan, and his third son Ken who lives with his wife Pam in Reston, Va. and 2 grandsons, Duncan and Connor.

Jim graduated from Manhattan College in 1962 with a degree in Accounting. He spent the next several years in various jobs, learning his trade. In 1967, Jim joined the corporate comptrollers office of American Express company. A few years later, Jim was appointed vice-president and controller of American Express Worldwide Travel Services. In 1979, he was elected vice-president and controller of Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company.

During this time, Winnie and Jim had the luxury to travel the world, one of their favorite pastimes. When they moved to Marin, they joined the Marin Country Club where they enjoyed many hours of golf and camaraderie with their friends and buddies. While Jim loved the game, his quality of play did not quite match his enthusiasm. After many a day playing golf, Jim would be heard mumbling to himself, “Thank God I never tried to earn a living doing this.”

The next 12 years at Fireman’s Fund were rather tumultuous, to say the least. Jim retired from the Fund in 1994 as a senior vice president after completing the development of the Fireman Fund’s campus at the end of San Marin drive.

During their retirement, Jim and Winnie continued to pursue their love of worldwide travel. Jim also worked with many local non-profits, including Novato Ecumenical Housing and Our Lady of Loretto, using his financial talents to help these worthy organizations achieve their goals.

Then, the grandsons came, and the focus changed. Jim and Winnie shared a wonderful life and wish for one and all that they have a happy, healthy and holy life.

The Mass of the celebration of Jim’s life will be held at Our Lady of Loretto church in Novato at 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 18th, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice by the Bay.