James Anthony Kerwin II

James was born on June 6, 1990 in Hartford, Connecticut to Dennis and Karen Kerwin. He graduated from Lyme-Old-Lyme High School in 2009. James spent most of his adult life as a heavy equipment operator in the paving industry. In his early career he worked for Empire Paving for several years. With this skill set he then transitioned to wastewater technician for SepticWorks. Most recently he was employed with Anton Paving working alongside his best friend, Garrett. No rig was too big for James to maneuver and he could park a low bed in Times Square. His work gave him purpose and was something he truly enjoyed.

His hobbies included anything that had wheels — trucks, cars, quads, mopeds, snowmobiles. He took pride in his 2000 Audi S4 and attended many car shows. He loved attending a wide array of sports events from NASCAR to Patriots, Red Sox, and Bruins games. His other true passion was being on the water and often where he was his happiest. He operated many boats from a young age and it was a special connection with his Dad. You could often find him on his Jet Ski going up the Connecticut River with Katelyn in tow (holding on for dear life). He also enjoyed spending time with family and friends at the Kerwin Family cottage at White Sands Beach and the Merritts at Old Lyme Shores. His infectious laugh and youthful spirit made him so much fun to be around and easy for children to relate to. He lit up a room with his humor, personality, and that unforgettable smile.

James leaves his mother Karen, sister Marissa Carignan and husband Blair Carignan of Waterford; along with his beloved niece and nephew Sloane and Shane. James is also grieved by his long-time girlfriend Katelyn Rowean, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and lifelong friends. He is predeceased by his father, Dennis Kerwin in 2020, and grandparents, Irene and James Kerwin, and Anthony and Doris Picano.

The family will gather with relatives and friends for a mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at 11:00 am, at Christ the King Church, 2 McCurdy Rd., Old Lyme, CT. Graveside services will be private. We will miss James every day. While our hearts are broken, we have some solace in knowing he is together with his dad again. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Ray of Hope- End the Stigma and Shame of Addiction, www.rayofhoperi.com .