James Concannon

James “Jim” Richard Concannon, 80, of Milton, VT, passed away on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at the McClure Miller Respite House in Colchester, VT.

Jim was born on January 30, 1945, to Richard Concannon and Margaret (Hill) Concannon in Northfield, VT. He graduated from Northfield High School, class of 1963, and held many fond memories of his time there. He later obtained a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in education, both from the University of Vermont.

Jim loved trains, and like his father, was a lifetime railroader with a career spanning 39 years. He worked for several railroads, including the Delaware and Hudson, Central Vermont/New England Central, and Vermont Rail Systems. He was a member of the Champlain Valley Chapter of the Railway Historical Society as well. He also enjoyed reminiscing yearly at events held for former employees of the Central Vermont Railway.

Jim always enjoyed traveling with family and loved long-distance road trips. He visited all 50 states and most Canadian provinces with his wife, Carol, mostly by car. The two crisscrossed the United States multiple times, including an overland trip to Alaska. Jim also loved to visit Maine, where his parents grew up, and visited Germany twice, mostly to see the steam engines that were still in regular use in the 1970s.

While traveling, Jim found any opportunity to visit a casino. He especially loved gambling trips to the Akwesasne Mohawk Casino in New York. He also liked to spend time reading in his (non-operational) 1954 Cadillac, as well as gardening and camping.

Jim is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Carol (Belrose) Concannon; daughter, Julie Concannon (Marc Choiniere); grandson, Sam Choiniere, sisters-in law Carolyn Callan (Peter), Andrea Belrose, Peggy Belrose Goodreau, several nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

Family and friends are invited to visiting hours at the Minor Funeral and Cremation Center, 237 Route 7 S, Milton, VT, on Friday, April 11, 2025, from 4:00PM to 7:00PM.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 11:00AM, St. Ann’s Church, 41 Main St., Milton, VT, with Father Curtis Miller as celebrant. The Rite of Committal will take place at a later date.

The family would like to thank staff at both the University of Vermont Medical Center and the McClure Miller Respite House for their attentive care during Jim’s final days.

Contributions in Jim’s memory may be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Vermont Foodbank.