Congratulations to our Billy Buzzee St. Pat on the Back award winner James M. Kane!
Jimmy was born and raised in Westfield, the son of Ann and Thomas Kane. In November 1977, he became the third charter member of the Sons of Erin, playing a key role in establishing the club and bringing Irish culture to life in Westfield. He was one of six individuals present at the organization’s very first meeting of the origins. Over the years, he served two years as treasurer and spent nearly two decades on and off as the club’s manager. Never one to shy away from hard work, James helped build the pavilion and generously gave his time to both remodels of the original and current club buildings.
James graduated from Saint Mary’s High School in 1973 and went on to earn degrees from Holyoke Community College and Springfield Technical Community College. He dedicated 36 years to the Westfield Fire Department, rising through the ranks to Deputy Chief before retiring in 2016.
He has been happily married for 44 years to his wife, Rosie (Burrage) Kane, whom he considers beautiful, talented, and wonderfully patient. He is the proud father of four children - James and his partner Jenna, Dan and his wife Lindsey, Courtney, and Tim and his husband Ian - and the proud grandfather of five grandchildren: Connor, Will, Harper, Colin, and Jack - and two grandpups Winnie and Frank.
James enjoys spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, and is rarely idle. He is always tackling a home improvement project or lending a helping hand to a friend - or even a stranger - in need. James also enjoys traveling with his brothers and nephews to various MLB stadiums, though his favorite place to visit is Ireland, where he still has many cousins and family. He and Rosie love spending time on the coast of Maine whenever they can.