James (Jim) Krieger, age 79, passed away unexpectedly at home on October 24th. A lifelong resident of Paterson, Jim is survived by his wife, of 49 years, Barbara and daughter Heidi Gunther and grandson Andrew, a son Michael and his wife Tina and grandson Chase. He is also survived by a brother John and his wife Lori. Jim was predeceased by his father Noah, mother Elizabeth, brothers Glenn and Louis, and sisters Elizabeth and Ruth. He is also survived by five nieces.

After attending Paterson elementary schools, Jim graduated from DePaul Catholic High School and Seton Hall University. Following his college graduation, Jim served in the US Army Infantry in Vietnam as a special radar operator. He received an Honorable Discharge from the military and went to work as a tax assessor for the City of Paterson until his retirement.

Jim was an avid sports enthusiast from his earliest years. He particularly enjoyed playing sandlot baseball and football. Following his Army service, Jim teamed up with his brother John on their amateur hockey team. He went on to make hockey his favorite sport and he passed that enthusiasm along to his son Michael.

Jim became a weather buff even as a kid. He would analyzed climate trends and he took pride in collecting and recording Paterson's daily weather conditions for many years. Another favorite pastime was fishing. He loved to drive his 2002 BMW Tii with friends to the southern Catskills for a long day of fishing. Driving the BMW made his trips to Germany with Barbara that much more exciting. The Autobahn was a true dream for someone who enjoyed driving on the ultimate roadways.

Jim's life was filled with love and compassion for his family and friends and he will surely be missed by all who knew him. All services are private at the request of the family. Festa Memorial Funeral Home, 111 Union Blvd., Totowa is in charge of arrangements.