James S Waitz

James Samuel Waitz, 88, Burlington businessman and community leader, passed away at his home on February 21 surrounded by loved ones. Born in Riverside, NJ in 1928, he lived in Palmyra until moving to Burlington at the age of two, where he resided for the remainder of his life. He loved history and he deeply loved Burlington. Jim's knowledge of Burlington was extensive. He was graduated from Wilbur Watts High School, class of 1947 and the Bradley University School of Horology in Peoria, Illinois. Owner of Waitz Jewelers, having followed his father William into the watch repair business, he in turn passed the store to his son James, who is continuing the family tradition of nearly 100 years. Raised in the Burlington Presbyterian Church, after marriage Jim became a member of the Broad Street United Methodist Church where he was a Trustee, youth leader, choir member, and Sunday school teacher. He was a member of the Burlington Masonic Lodge #32 F & AM and was proud to be a Mason. After serving for twenty years as a Burlington Township Councilman and School Board member, in 1998 Jim was honored as Citizen of the Year by the Greater Burlingtons Chamber of Commerce. Jim was the consummate volunteer. Retiring at age 53, he dedicated his remaining years to volunteering for a variety of organizations. He was a director of the First Investors Federal Savings Bank. Jim was the beloved handyman for the Home for Aged Women as well as for the Methodist Church. For 14 years Jim devoted time to the patients at the Masonic Home. Jim and Doris enjoyed traveling for many years throughout the US and Europe, taking cruises and visiting family in North Carolina and California. He took great pleasure in maintaining his home and yard until the end. Preceded in death by his parents, William and Bernice McCay Waitz, sister Nancy Waitz Lewis, and brother William Waitz, Jr., Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 66 years, Doris Boulton Waitz; children James William Waitz and companion Jacqueline Fine of Burlington, Patricia Waitz Hucks and husband Timothy of Chapel Hill, NC, and Judith Waitz and husband Peter Hsia of San Francisco; grandchildren Benjamin Hucks (Danielle Lovell), Randall Hucks (Kathleen), Megan Hucks (fiancé James Norquest), Hetti Hsia, and Lena Hsia. He was anticipating the birth of his first great-grandchild and namesake, James Samuel Hucks in June. The family would like to thank the staff of Acacia Hospice for the care given, aide Florence Adu for her invaluable assistance during his final weeks and especially Jim's honorary niece, Marsha Danser for her constant and loving support. Visitation will take place at 10 am February 28 at the Broad Street United Methodist Church, 36 E. Broad Street, Burlington, followed by a memorial service at 11:00. Afterwards there will be a reception in the Junior room of the church. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the Broad Street United Methodist Church at the above address or to the Masonic Village, 902 Jacksonville Road, Burlington, NJ 08016. Condolences may be sent to Mrs. Doris Waitz, PO Box 471, Burlington, NJ 08016. Page Funeral Home is assisting the family. Jim's granddaughter Megan referred to him as "an impeccable example of humanity" and he will be remembered with love for his integrity, humor, and intellectual curiosity. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of James S Waitz please visit our Sympathy Store.

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