James A. Sullivan Print

James A. Sullivan
Retired Treasurer of The University of Massachusetts Lowell;

 

James A. Sullivan, 87, of Westford, Massachusetts and formerly of Chelmsford, a devoted husband and father, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday January 15, 2023, at Lowell General Hospital with his family by his side.

He was the loving husband for over 61 years of Dorothy F. (Donahue) Sullivan, who survives him.

Born in Andover, Massachusetts, September 3, 1935, the son of the late Augustine P. and the late Mary T. (Picard) Sullivan, he was a graduate of Central Catholic High School Class of 1953 and received his Bachelor of Science in Science from Merrimack College in 1957.

Jim went on to receive his Master’s in Business Administration from Fitchburg State College.

He proudly served his country as a Sergeant First Class with the U.S. Army and continued his service as a Reservist with the National Guard.

Jim's 48 year career in the University system began at Lowell Technological Institute, then the University of Lowell, ultimately working years as the treasurer of the University of Massachusetts Lowell. After a brief retirement, he returned to work part time for the Dean of Arts and Sciences until age 78.

An active member of his community, Jim served as the former Chairman of the Chelmsford High School Building Committee and was a former communicant of St. Mary’s Church where he also taught religious education. He enjoyed golfing and was a past member of Vesper Country Club.

Jim was an avid tennis player for over 50 years and coordinated the Tuesday Night Tennis League every week at Trull Brook Tennis Club.

Jim also had his private pilot’s license. His children fondly recall the flight to Martha's Vineyard for lunch as a great adventure.

His greatest joy was the time he spent with his family, especially his children, grand and great grandchildren. Telling each how much he loved them with regularity.

Besides his wife, Jim is survived by four children Dorothy F. Semonian and her husband Ralph G. of Westford; James A. Sullivan Jr and his wife Wendy Bean of East Burke, VT; Ellen M. Grondine and her husband Thomas of Westford; and Catherine M. Olszowy and her husband Andrew of Westford; eight grandchildren- Edward R. Flood, III, Matthew J. Flood, Elizabeth C. Flood, LT Victoria D. Medved, Thomas J. Grondine, Catherine M. Grondine, Ellen F. Olszowy and Olivia V. Olszowy; three great grandchildren Mackenzie B. Flood, Cash E. Flood, and Fiona F. Flood; a brother John “Jack” Sullivan and his wife Ellen of Andover and many nieces and nephews, near and far.

He was the brother of the late Elizabeth Cotting and the late Ann Marie Rae.

Relatives and friends may attend his Visitation on Friday morning January 20, 2023, at ST. CATHERINE OF ALEXANDRIA CHURCH, 107 North Main St., Westford, MA from 10 to 11:15 A.M. followed by his Funeral Mass in the church at 11:30 A.M. Burial to follow at St. Mary Cemetery in North Tewksbury. E-condolences/directions at www.odonnellfuneralhome.com. Those wishing may make contributions in his memory to St. Catherine of Alexandria Church, 107 North Main St., Westford, MA 01886. Arrangements by the O’DONNELL FUNERAL HOME – LOWELL – MA (978) 458-8768.

Condolences (6)
  • Martha McGowan  - My condolences.
    Jim was one of those truly reliable people at the University. Whenever I went to him with some problem he could help with, he always did so in the friendliest manner. He did his job with such dedication and sense of service--and for so many years. My deepest sympathies go out to all his family.
  • Jean Swanso
    Dear Dotty Ralph and family. Please accept our deepest sympathy on the passing of your wonderful Dad. May happy memories help you get through this difficult time. Sending hugs and love Jeannie and Jerry
  • Brenda Sullivan Schmidt  - condolences
    DearDorothyandSullivanfamily, So sorr Dear Dorothy and Sullivan family So sorry to hear of your loss. Jim was a fineman.Please accept my deepest condolences
  • Paula DeAngelis
    To the Sullivan family, so sorry to hear of the passing of Jim, “Mr. Sullivan “. I worked with him for many years at UML. Sincerest sympathies, Paula DeAngelis
  • Susan Cooney  - My sympathy to you all
    I am shocked to hear this news. I send you all my heartfelt wishes of sympathy at this very difficult time. Susan
  • Brenda and Frank McDermott
    We're very sorry to hear that Jim passed away. We enjoyed the many times we spent together, and will cherish those memories including Tuesday night tennis group and the Friday couples tennis. We'll very much miss Jim's easy disposition and smiles. He was a real gentleman.
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