James “Jim” H. Dunn, 73, a 46-year resident of Holliston, passed away peacefully, Thursday, November 10, with his loving wife by his side. Born in Natick, he was the son of the late Evelyn (Paul) and Walter P. Dunn. He was the husband of 49 years to Marie-Therese (Boishardy) Dunn of Holliston.

Jim met Marie when he was working for Natick Cab while attending Bentley College. She had come over from France as an au-pair in Milton. They soon married, moving to Holliston to start a family. Living out his dream, he opened his own business, Handi-Tax, in Framingham in 1982, the same year he welcomed his first child.

He loved spending time with his children and was the fun dad. He volunteered to chaperone school field trips, built igloos in the snow, made blanket forts in the living room, and even created a baseball diamond in the backyard for the whole neighborhood to enjoy, nicknamed “The Dunn Dome.” He was “Big Jim” to many children who passed through Marie’s daycare, making them laugh and just listening to their stories. He enjoyed the simple things in life: a great meal with good company, and lots of laughs. He took pleasure in learning about History, especially the civil war. He loved traveling, making several cross-country trips, a memorable trip to Alaska with his brother, and many trips to Europe with his family. He especially enjoyed getting in the car and just driving wherever the road would take him.

He will be remembered for his unmatched sense of humor, dedication to his family, strength in the face of adversity, and love for adventure.

Besides his wife, he is survived by two children, Renee Falconer and her husband, Edward of Millville, and Gary Dunn of Milford. He also leaves behind his siblings, Douglas Dunn of Maine, William “Bill” Dunn, and his wife, Darcey of Vermont; sister-in-law Annick Lucas of France; nieces, Kim, Chrissy, Kerri, Emma, and his nephew, Matt; as well as many cousins. He is predeceased by two brothers, Robert and John Dunn.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 19th from 2:30-5:30 at Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston, 854 Washington St. www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, stjude.org or to 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.