Name: Coral Ridge Funeral Home & Cemetery
Address: Cape Coral, FL

I just heard the sad news of Jim’s passing.  I remember Jim from back in our high school days.  I always thought of Jim as a heck of a nice guy.  He will be remembered fondly by many of his former Walt Whitman classmates.  My sincere condolences to Jim’s family.  May Jim Rest In Peace. 

Jim was always there to help me with technology throughout my teaching career in Half Hollow Hills. To me, he was a genius - one who could accommodate all students’ musical needs to make them sound better. In our school production of Alice in Wonderland, he adjusted the tempo so that all the performers’ words could be heard. After a full day of teaching, he was always willing to give up his time to help others who were totally clueless (like me).
My best wishes go out to his son Michael, who I think of often. He was one of my favorite students!!

Thinking of you all,
Linda Strickler

To the Haefele Family,  
  I was so saddened to hear about the passing of Jim.  I worked with him at HHH East for the last ten years before I retired.  He was such a wonderful human being, fabulous musician and loving father and husband.  It was a pleasure to have known him and I will sincerely miss him and hope to meet in amongst the angels some day.  Jim and your family will be part of my prayers.
Sincere condolences,
 Irena Rozycki, former AP at East

My brother, John Wehmann just called and shared that “Jimmy” has passed away.  I am so very sorry for the loss of such a sweet and caring man.  He was my cousin(my mother Grace Haefele Wehmann and his father Frank Haefele were siblings).  I can recall visiting his parents house as a child; sitting in the living room as Jimmy would perform on his accordion.  I was still very young and in awe, I had never seen such an instrument!  Jimmy was amazing in how talented and in a sense comical while playing, to me, such a difficult instrument.  Later, I went on to play cello; but will always remember him and his musical abilities.  May his family and friends  know that He is at peace with our Heavenly Father.  I can picture him playing in the orchestra up in heaven;  Praying for all family and friends...🙏🙏

My deepest condolences to the Haefele family.  The HHHHSE music department was a blessed environment for a young musician.  With the firm foundation I received from Mr. Haefele and Mr. Soper, I went on to both a bachelors and masters in classical composition (with a graduate minor in choral conducting).  My teachers in my college years were some of the most highly-regarded names in the industry.  But I can say, with complete sincerity, that the best music teachers I ever had were those two gifted and giving men.  Thank you for your talent, attention and dedication, Mr. Haefele.  You will live on in our work and our memories.

High school was amazing for me. Most people don't really say that. But I can,  and proudly.  I was very involved in music and was in Band, Chorus, select choir, Vocal Jazz, Half tones, Marching Band and music theory. I LIVED in the music department. It was THE REASON I loved HS. Haef was the reason I loved it there. The other teachers were amazing but Heaf supported me, talked endlessly with me and always, ALWAYS gave me constructive advice in order to hone my craft. He was simply an inspiration to me and when I think of HS I think of him. SO many amazing memories and they ALL have him in it. Thank you Mr. Haefele for all you gave and for all your advice and wisdom. All my love and prayers are with his family. Thank you for sharing him with us!!   Haef, may your light beam down on us all and may we feel you with every note we sing or play. 

It has taken me a while to collect my thoughts and I'm still questioning how to express my deep sadness for the loss of Jim. It has permeated my psyche since I first heard the news.

Truth-be-told, we hadn't been in touch in a very long time. My only real contact was through Laurie on Facebook. I guess, I just always assumed he'd be around and someday, I would find the time to visit down in Florida.

We didn't always see eye to eye. The smoking drove me nuts, and I was pretty vocal about it. What I also remember is, how he stood up for me before Maxine Fountain was hired. How he always pushed me to give it a shot. I knew I was meant to be a musician, despite the dismissal of previous teachers. 

I would never be a classical musician. Tests of any kind terrorized me--still do to this day. I never did NYSSMA, and therefore, never was able to audition for All State or any of the other reveared ensembles. He pushed and bent the rules and got me into All County without an audition because he knew I could hold down a part like no one's business.

I decided to go to Stony Brook University..because of a boy. Jim knew it was a mistake, as did my parents, but supported me nonetheless. It was an abysmal failure. I wound up transferring to Five Towns College where I found the place I fit in. I graduated valedictorian of my class and I honestly believe that Jim's influence on me was a factor.

Throughout the years, he would show up at an ocassional concert. He introduced me to Craig Cook, who became a friend and supporter. 

I miss those days of jazz ensemble and madrigals. As much as I love being the "soloist" in my own career, I always loved singing with others--still do to this day. 

Thank you Jim (Haef), for believing me when no one else did, not even I. I prayed every night for you when I first heard you had fallen ill. I hope you heard me say your name.

My love is now sent to Laurie and your family. I know you are free. Photo from an old album I found ❤️

A former student of Jim’s, I graduated from HHHHSE in 1987.  He let me be in vocal jazz without my having enrolled in choir.  I just could not fit in all the music classes amongst my other academic classes, and being a flute player, being in band was a priority, which Jim understood.  In senior year, I decided I would also enroll in choir, and never regretted it. His teaching always stuck with me in every choir or opera in which I have since sung.  Jim’s kind and caring spirit was always there with all of us.  Loved his humor, too, especially with Ira and Gordy.  What a trio.  All I know is that I am extremely grateful for the heart he put into us...helped to make me who I am today, saved some of us, too.  For this, he will always remain with me.  Thanks, Haef...but no chair-throwing with the angels, ok?

To the Haefele family:
I had the privilege and honor of working with Jim at HHH East for over 12 years.  He was more than a colleague, he was a dear friend and support through many challenges and good times.  I fondly remember his work with children as they developed their talents and matured as adults.  He truly cared about them and was a voice of reason when they needed it the most.  He was more than a music teacher or director, he was a significant influence in their lives.  Please take comfort in knowing he meant so much to so many.  I truly respected him and am sad to hear of his passing.   Hank Hardy

Kita and I are devastated by news of Jim’s passing. It’s hard to imagine the impact on Jim’s family. Laurie, I pray God continues to give you and your family the strength to endure and persevere. I can tell by what you have written already that God has bestowed that strength upon you and enhanced it with grace, and even in your time of personal sorrow, your concern for others.

Jim was a great man and great friend.  Though we did not know each other well at first, he was willing to give another "techie" like me his new equipment to try out even before it was out of the box. I was so impressed, overwhelmed, really, by his unconditional willingness to share and trust. And so started our many years of swapping our most precious possessions, including thoughts and ideas.

Most of our time together was working on shows at West Hollow and later, High School East.  Jim provided not only excellent sound, but was always there to get us out of a jam when something technical went wrong. He provided a zone of comfort with his presence.

Even though our work was physically and emotional intense, we had a lot of fun and laughs together. In all the years of productions, with tensions inevitably building toward the opening curtain, we’ve never had an argument, a disagreement – we’ve never had words with one another or any ill-feelings – and that goes for Kita as well.  It says a lot about our relationship and the mutual respect we all had for each other.  I consider that to have been a great blessing.

Jim was my buddy, my confidant, an esteemed colleague and a true friend.  He was one of the most giving, knowledgeable, talented, yet humble people I have had the privilege to know. Get ready, Jim.  There’s going to be a line of angels waiting to audition for your new heavenly choir!

Was privileged to have Jim as both a friend and colleague at Hills East.  Was able to see him in action as we worked together on several musicals in the '80's.  As Musical Director, he was patient, kind, wise and very talented and his students loved him for it.  We all knew him as a good man and a master teacher.  Not a bad epitaph.  

Dear Haefele family,
I hope today's Mass was as comforting for you as it was for us. We must believe that Jim is truly in a better place, and may his memory be as a blessing to you all.  Judy and I are overwhelming sad at your terrible loss, but I have been reflecting back on all the wonderful times I spent with him, at HHHSEast, at SCMEA, at NYSSMA and at Michael's horn lessons which I was honored to be asked to give him when he was much younger.  He helped me with mics and cables every year so that the Huntington Jewish Center's High Holiday Choir could be heard. You must know that there are literally thousands of broken hearts mourning with you today and always.  Wishing you peace, Alan Orloff and Judy Leopold.


Dear Laurie and family-
The impact Jim had on so many lives is readily apparent in all the social media posts sharing the variety of memories people have of him. My own remembrances were of a person full of passion, music, humor, commitment, camaraderie, compassion and the determination to drive people to reach their fullest potential. It was a privilege to have known and worked with him in those brief years that I did and I am certain that he carried those qualities throughout his life . May those shared, loving memories of his students, friends, colleagues and family ease your loss and may you find solace in the fact that, yes, he will be missed but, more important, he will always be remembered...and by so many.
With sincerest sympathy,
Tom

To the Haefele Family, 
This is such sad news. While I’d like to be eloquent like the beautiful tributes I’ve been reading about Jim, I do not have the fancy words at the moment because I’m so sad. Jim made me laugh! I made him laugh. We shared Special Ed students at HS East and some were difficult. I was a Resource Room teacher. On tough days, we would make the best of it. He always made me laugh and feel better. We kind of had an understanding. I would tease him about the marching band and say Hey Jim,  what’s the best formation the marching band can do ? He’d say something like “ the rectangle”. It’s a tragedy for someone so full of life to die so young. Jim was one of the good guys. I counted him as a friend. The world is a darker place without him. My condolences to his family and friends.

Dear Michael, Laurie, and Lexi,
I was so sad to learn the news about Jim. I have so many fond memories of him. As a music teacher in Half Hollow Hills, he was always there to help me with music technology. Jim was also a big help to the drama program at Paumanok, and above all, he was a good friend. He will be missed by all. 

Dear Laurie and family, 
The love all of you shared with ‘Hef’, Jim, James, Dad and Uncle Jim can only be matched by the courage you exhibited during the long month of hoping and praying that he could return to good health.  You made the difficult decision for him to move on.
My love and respect will always be with you.  As ever,   Maxine Fountain

I will always remember Jim as giving so much of himself to his students and always being  super prepared.  He was an excellent example of what a dedicated music educator should be.  I enjoyed working with him for the few years I was at Hills High School East.  Cathy and I send our thoughts and prayers to the Haefele family.                                    

Peter DiGennaro
Chestnut Hill/Otsego

It was my pleasure to work with you at South Huntingon Schools. You were a valued educator and friend.  My heart is heavy with sadness. May God bless your family and rest your soul. 

I have enjoying watching these lovely pictures of Jim and his family.
I will  miss his sweet smile and his music. I was so grateful for his help with Rolando's  Burial Mass. He sang a Beautiful  Ave Maria that I will  never forget.
I will  continue  praying  for his Family
May you Rest in Peace.
There are no Words to Express the Pain that we feel in Our Saint Katharine Drexel's Church

 

Laurie - I'm so very sorry to hear about your loss. Our prayers are with you and your family. Your kindness is still very well remembered and we know how much you love your family. Take care and know our thoughts and love is with you.


Jim Haefele never dwelt on the past or relied on tomorrow to make things better. He lived for today. He found happiness in whatever the day brought and shared his joy of living with his students and colleagues.

Jim brightened our days with his music and his outlook on life. As a musician and teacher he was among the best. He inspired his students including my son. As a friend and colleague he was always there to share and help.  

The Sher family sadly will miss Jim Haefele but will always remember him as a very special man in our lives.  
 
Michael Sher
Half Hollow Hills
West Hollow


I will always remember Mr. Haefele as a funny,  and well-respected choral teacher at Half Hollow Hills H.S. East in Dix Hills, N Y.  My friend Pauline and I always looked forward to his class. Yes, those were great times! 
Sending my sincere condolences to his family and friends. 
May you rest in peace, Mr. Haefele. You will be missed. 

Kelly Ruff. 

I attend Sunday Mass at Saint Katharine Drexel where James used to play the piano without fail every Sunday. Although I did not know him personally, I knew his wife Laurie. James always seemed as such a devoted man and loving husband. I was deeply saddened to hear about this and I pray that God may provide all the strength and peace that Laurie and his family need during this difficult time. May James rest in peace!

So saddened to hear about Jim's passing. As a Counselor at HHH I did not have a lot of contact with Jim except in the hallways or in faculty meetings, but I will always remember his kind and gentle manner and the wonderful impression he left on thousands of students throughout his career.   May his family find comfort, strength, and peace during this very difficult time  and may his memory forever be a legacy in their hearts. 
Rest in Eternal Peace Jim. 

Jim Haefele ... An exceptional, devoted, inspirational teacher ... A loving husband, father, family member ... A dear, dependable, loyal friend. Respected by all ... His talents and his skills in drawing out the talents of others, will enhance the glories of heaven! Rest In Peace, Jim!

thoughts n prayers go out to the haefele family. i knew jim as ‘mr.carl’. he substituted for my band class in middle school. he was an amazingly cool dude and always tried his best to teach us about music no matter how crazy we were. i was thrilled to see him at miceli’s restaurant, where i work, i even got a selfie! so much love goes out to the family. jim will be missed so much. 

My memories of Jim are of person who was a consummate professional in every way. Even though we didn't work in the same school, he was always there to help in anything that I needed. His sense of humor would keep us all entertained, even in the most difficult times. In my case he was a tremendous help teaching me sound reinforcement for our musical productions. He was outstanding when it came to anything dealing with sound. His chorus was one of the county's best, and I feel honored to have known him. I can't believe that he is gone. Betty and I will always keep him, Laurie and the family in our prayers.

Lou DiGennaro
Half Hollow Hills H.S. West

My many memories of Jim involve  music education in Suffolk County and New York State.  He always worked hard for the benefit of students, and was a wonderful colleague and friend.  If you wanted something done well, Jim Haefele was the person to ask.  
I could write an essay on all the times "Jim saved the day!"  His kindness, dedication and patience were always the best.
He left way too soon and I mourn his passing.  Sincere condolences to his family.  

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Jim. He was not only a great musician and music teacher/educator but a great man as well.
It was always great to see him at the NYSSMA festivals in Suffolk County each year. It was always a lot of fun hanging out and talking to him. He will be missed by everyone. My deepest condolences go out to Laurie, Michael, Lexi, and all of his family, relatives, friends, and colleagues. 

John Lazarek

Jim was always so much fun to work with on numerous SCMEA Jazz Day Festivals and All State Vocal Jazz at the NYSSMA Winter Conference.   He was such a pro with a great heart , always a teacher and a good friend.   I am so sad that our music world has lost this bright light of a man.  He loved his family the most, and always talked about them all with much love in his eyes and words. 

Thank you Jim, for all you taught me, for the hard work, and many laughs.  Wishing you the best choir and the best sound in heaven. You are already missed.  

The news of Jim’s passing is something I did not want to hear.  Jim was my right hand, go to guy with Student Government and Senior Class.  He was the reason many of our events were so successful and fun for our students.  Jim recorded Homecoming skits, set up sound and lighting for graduation, student plays and musicals, helped with float building, direct talent shows and the music at Safe Halloween, and don’t forget working the James E Allen Holiday Shows.  His infectious warmth endeared him with his students.  Haef pushed them and then gave them an opportunity to shine.  Jim genuinely enjoyed seeing his students grow in talent, skills and maturity from Freshmen to Senior Graduation.   He put in more hours making events run for Hills East and music festivals then anyone realized.  Thank you so much for your friendship, advice, and willingness to give so much of yourself.  My heart goes out to Laurie and family.  Rest in peace my friend.

You took us on “The “A” Train “ and taught us the amazing things we could do with our voices in Vocal Jazz- then took us way back in time with the Madrigal Singers- you did not accept less than perfection and you were a mere 26 or 27 years old- you were a renaissance man- I was so honored to be asked to sing at your wedding to the kind and lovely Laurie- you left us way too soon but you remain in my heart- I learned so much from you and never enjoyed singing  more than with HHHEast Chorus- I know the heavens are singing “My funny Valentine” in perfect pitch if you are directing- Mary Schroeder-Savino Class of 1982

On behalf of my family & I, we are so very sorry for the loss of Jim.  My dad, Jim, Kyle & I, Brittney, were just at Jim & Laurie’s house for Aunt Pat & Lucy’s birthday party back in February. We’ve been there a few times before and Jim & Laurie always made us feel so welcome. Especially this last party when Jim bought out the accordion to play happy birthday was such a great treat. We are truly so sadden to hear of his passing, what a tremendous loss. We send all of our love, pray & thoughts to the Haefele family xo

This is not an Obituary that I wanted to read.  My heart aches for Laurie and his family. Jim was a marvelous influence on his students as well as the Music Dept at High School East. I had the privilege of knowing him as a fellow faculty member! He was a gentle soul who had an infectious smile. He exemplified the "Perfect Role Model" as has so fittingly been described by his former students! He loved Laurie and his family, his Church, his music and his students! I thank you Jim for having shared your time with me at HSE!! My love and deepest condolences to Laurie and your loved ones. Ann Soranno Carro

I never met a man who was so  kind and even tempered than Hef He was one of my favorite people at HSE because he was genuinely a good man I am so upset about his untimely death and I offer his family my most sincere sympathy 
Mary Ann Baillargeon 

James Haefele was my favorite teacher in HS, but it wasn't until the very sad news of his passing reached that I began to reflect about how much Haef had helped shape me into the person I became through music and his way of offering life lessons in conversation.  I was his student for only 3 years, but his contribution was to my development significant.  High school years can be challenging, but those of us who had him in our corner had a very powerful ally! 
Never underestimate the impact your positive actions make on others. James Haefele made this World a much better place through all whose life he touched.  

When my interests turned from performing to production, there was no judgement, Haef just jumped in to teach me what he knew about lighting and sound and pyrotechnics.  I got to spend a lot of time with him setting up school events or other gigs and it was amazing to watch him expertly prep everything for a performance, jump into a phone booth and pop out in a tuxedo to do his other job.  All done with that patented Haefele smile! 

I was home on leave in the mid-nineties and decided to run up to the HS to see him.  He wasn't in the music rooms, but fittingly in the auditorium and when I saw him it was like I had never left.  He always made you feel welcome! As we talked about me and the Navy, I learned that he had actually worked on the Grumman assembly line in Bethpage making E2-Cs for the Navy.  There were always unseen layers to Haef.

My deepest condolences to Laurie, the Haefele family and my fellow grieving alumni. 

 Thank you, Jim, for everything!  


I remember how The Heff would encourage me
When i doubted myself. He push me to be more than i could be in my teenage life. He said sing with the band the song “i will survive” And I did it .. it helped me  be more assertive in my life as a person and branch out.. he set up a few of us to sing in Madrigal group so awesome and fun! 
He was a amazing music teacher.
He will be missed!

The lessons I've learned from Haefele extended from the classroom into my adult life through this day. I will forever cherish my memories of him and hold on to what he taught me about music and life.

To be back in HS in the music wing hanging out with Haef whether it was my lesson period or a class period I made ... fussing with him about keeping his sheet music together in his office ...the fun musical debates he'd entertain when I tried to argue that Sopranos were musicians too ... those memories are just some of the highlights I will forever hold onto; best times of my HS career. 

To the Haefele family and my fellow grieving alumni, you are in my prayers and have my heartfelt condolences. I still cannot believe this has happened and I am deeply saddened that we all cannot gather together to send him off in a proper celebratory fashion. Hang in there everyone.

There will never be another like him. Haefele, you are sorely missed. 😭

It was early spring of 1984 when I first met Jim Haefele. I was sitting in the cafeteria of Half Hollow Hills HS East, eating an utterly tasteless school lunch, when he walked over to my table with a yellow envelope. I wasn’t involved in chorus- or the music department at all, for that matter- because I wanted to focus on academics that year. I had no idea who Jim was.

Jim introduced himself, said that he heard (I assume from Richie Miranda at Burr’s Lane JHS) that I was quite a singer, and that I should be involved in SCMEA and the upcoming concert. I tried to talk him out of it, said I was too busy with school work. He gently but firmly refused to take no for an answer. When I reluctantly agreed, he handed me that yellow envelope- which had the sheet music for the concert inside. He told me to come down to his office any time to work on it. So I did... and in addition to performing in the SCMEA concert, I ended up practically living in that music department for the next two years.

Being a part of James Haefele’s Chorus, and Vocal Jazz, and Half Tones, was one of the best parts of my life. He was a phenomenal teacher. He was serious about his mission to educate, but also just a decent human being and fun to be around. OK, so he only gave me one solo in two years of chorus concerts... “He shouts for bean sprouts!” But he also pushed me to audition for All-State Chorus, which I was selected for, thanks to his help. And he let me play bass guitar for some of the small ensemble songs- my favorite musical thing to do.

I ended up having a career in law, and then casting it aside in favor of a life as a professional musician. Let me say that my worst day as a musician is better than my best day as an attorney. I am quite certain Jim knew this would be so, and was trying to make sure that  I followed the correct life path.  He was certainly right about that. I am honored and blessed to have had Jim in my life. And I know everyone who ever met him feels the same.

Mr. Haefele, or “Haef” as we affectionately called him, was a brilliant teacher and mentor to me and thousands of students. A wonderful man, and committed and dedicated educator and loving husband and father, Jim guided me to be the best musician I could be, and showed me unconditional support, which I seek to share in turn with my students now. I will never forget you and will always be grateful. 

Jim, you were such a big part of my life.  We had twin jobs, and I was constantly on the phone asking you for advice and support when I moved to the high school.  You helped me to understand what jazz was and made suggestions for my fledgling group.  You always had a smile on your face and were there to help.  I can’t count the times and experiences  we shared together.  You were so vital and so tech smart and so musical and such a great sound technician and so much fun. I know how dedicated you were to your students and how they loved you.  You were more than a teacher to them.  You were a mentor and a friend.  And you were like a younger “big brother“ to me.  I will always remember you with great fondness.  So now there will be some more beautiful music in heaven.

To  know Jim and Laurie was to immediately feel welcome into this family. Without any questions they took in a lot of  us strays who moved from other places and made us feel like family. It was normal for every holiday to have a minimum of 50 people, family, friends, neighbors, always making you feel like family and home.  It was a family ritual to play the piano and sing Happy Birthday into the phone to all they knew.  

We learned what kindness and being a real servant of God was from them.  

Love this family with all our hearts!


Mr Haefele was an outstanding teacher and talented musician. While he was a perfectionist with the music, he put the needs of his students first, which I think is the reason he was so loved and respected. My most vivid picture is his use of a giant imaginary volume knob to help us understand what he wanted musically and how to respond instantly to his direction.  His faith in us pushed us to be better than we thought we could.  He will be missed by so many he touched in this life. Our love and condolences to his family. 

Jim was a wonderful guy, a real "character" and someone that we will never forget. He was beloved by his students over the years and always - ALWAYS - made sure that they were OK. He cared. He was a throwback to "old school" teachers who routinely went out of their way for their students (colleagues, too) - it's who Jim Haefele was. He was an outrageously talented musician, too! Many of us who worked with Jim as colleagues undoubtedly have some pretty funny stories to share. I was present for an elaborate practical joke Jim set-up years ago with one of his amazing students at Hills East completely in on the joke during the tail end of a NYSSMA solo festival at HHH HS East... I don't want to get too deep into the particulars but let's just say that I have NEVER laughed so hard and those who shared in the joke would likely agree - "classic" Haefele! His ever present dress-down attire (jeans and shirt, either Hawaiian or flannel depending on the time of year) told you instantly that this guy was relentless in his efforts to get the job done - he worked long hours and just kept going. Hearing his choirs, seeing the musicals, watching him set-up and breakdown audio mics and equipment and that wonderful laugh of his ... I loved this guy - what amazing memories we all have! He was a stand-up guy and a straight-shooter who dedicated his life to family, friends and students. Our deepest condolences to Laurie and Michael and to the extended Haefele family. We missed you Jim when you resettled in Florida but we hoped to see you again ... and now it is doubly sad to know that you have left us all, for good. However, the happy and wonderful memories of time spent with Jim will always be with us. Thanks, Mr. H!

I am also a prior student of his at HHHHS East.  Mr. Haefele was the person who taught me how to breathe properly so that I can sing to the best of my ability.  He also taught me lasting lessons on discipline.  I have enormous respect for him as a teacher and as a human being.  I think of him often and have great memories.  He was and will always be an inspiration to me.  May he rest in peace and peace be with his family and friends and all of those who he inspired.

What a gift to humanity Jim is.  His love of family, music and friends will be my fondest memory.  He and Laurie opened their hearts and home many times and we were blessed to be included in many wonderful family moments.  Their love and passion is ever present, shared generously, unconditionally.  God bless and keep you.

My heart was sadden when I heard of Mr Haefele’s passing.  My happiest memories of HHHE was of his presence , humor, and talent. He gave all of us a chance to belong and shine.  I am truly blessed to have know him. 
Gia Laucella class of 89

We can only continue praying, thinking of the goodness, and the inner musical joy that Jim, through his God given talents brought to us through his many singers and musicians.  Knowing full well that God is also a musician, gives our family great solace in knowing that he has been received with open arms by our Saviour, Jesus.  He uplifted each Mass at St. Katherine's Church through his ardent desire to make music such an integral part of our worship, and using his talents at the keyboard to set the lyrics to harmonic splendor each week through his teaching to our vocalists and instrumentalists.  We will miss Jim, his smile, his inner peace and joy but will be able to hold his memory in our hearts.  We will continue to love Laurie's  and Jim's examples of fellowship as a wonderful testament of our true Catholic Faith.
  

Our deepest sympathy and prayers to Jim's family.....we were blessed to have known and worked with Jim at our church SKD;  if only for a short rime.  He always had a kind word and a smile for everyone.  He is also one of the nicest and talented men we have ever met, and are glad he touched our lives....God bless Jim and his family....we will never forget; Jack & Karen

Jim was the first person I met when I moved to Cape Coral and far away from my family. How lucky and fortunate am I to be able to say that. He welcomed a complete stranger into his band family and helped me succeed every step. I would learn that that was “just Jim.” In the six years I knew him, he served as a constant mentor and friend as I taught at North High. I am so fortunate to have had him in my life when I did. I owe so much of my experiences, my drive for a job, and my love for music to him. Because of Jim I know what it means to be passionate about a cause, such as sharing music to kids. Because of Jim I know what it means to graduate from a band program, but never really leave it. 

Jim... he stepped up as our Choir Director in a pinch at church, when we felt lost -- he made us feel found; he did a stellar job; he made us feel like family; he always smiled; always brought smiles to our faces; he made my little Amy happy when he shared his bench with her at the piano; and was an all around good guy...we will miss him so much!

Robin and I moved next door to Jim, Laurie and the family in September 2013.  We were greeted by Jim with a huge smile and welcoming thoughts.  That evening they welcomed us in their home and we always felt like family.  We shared common interests with music and dogs.  Jim - you will always be in our hearts and prayers and will keep any eye on Laurie, the family, and all the dogs that you have cared for.

God bless you Mr. Haefele. Thank you for being a great influence in my life as a high schooler.  The heavens have received a beautiful angel.  Much love and condolences to your wife and family. 

Devastated to hear the news of Hefs passing. Few teachers can touch their students as much as Jim did. Not only was he a great teacher but a dear friend. Jim taught thousands of kids over his career  and we are all who we are today because of him. He shared the pure joy of the arts to everyone he touched. I worked with Jim in and out of school especially with the Township Theater  Group where he treated me like an equal and still taught me at the same time. I owe my career in the arts to Mr. Hef because he showed that theater, music and art has value that can't be measured by conventional terms. He will be missed and deserves a spotlight and a bow center stage. The Robert's family send our best to his family

I first met Jim my first year of teaching at South Huntington Schools. I was very shy and very nervous. My director had convinced me to chair the SCMEA orchestra. The rehearsals were almost always at HHH. That meant that Jim was always there during the rehearsals. Without him saying it, he taught me the importance of always being there for my students. He was a positive influence on everyone he came in contact with. And when he gets the chance in Heaven, I’m sure he’ll either be directing or helping to direct the choir there! Rest In Peace my friend. 

My sympathies to the Haefele family, and prayers for our friend, mentor, guide, and teacher known simply as “Haef”; on these pages you will see tributes from hundreds of people who were positively shaped by the caring heart, sense of humor, and generous spirit of Jim Haefele. I graduated HSE in 1984, and the impact Haef had on me as a kid helped turn me into the adult I have become. He taught me to sing; and he taught me that when life hands you lemons (there was no viola part for me to play in the pit orchestra for Pirates) you make lemonade (get up on that stage kid, sing your heart out and grab a lead role). I have never met a more devoted advocate for kids. While his life ended way too soon, his legacy lives on in all the lives he has touched and the music he has inspired. We are all richer for the bit of Haef in us. Rest In Peace, dear Haef, and know you were loved and appreciated by so many. 

Condolences to the Haefele family from my family. You all have been an integral part of my upbringing, from Mr. Haefele being my Chorus teacher in High School and Mrs Haefele being my doctor for a time as well. He will be missed for sure.  The HHHE Choir was and still is an extended family of mine.  I will cherish all those concert memories for the rest of my life.  Rest In Peace Mr. Haefele.

12 years ago I had the opportunity to help Jim and Family relocate hear to Cape Coral, FL.  I’ll always remember Jim for his very bright, cheerful and positive attitude...he always smiled.  May God Bless him and all whom were blessed to have known Jim....especially his Family.  Love Ray and Connie.

I'll never forget the first vocal jazz concert I had ever been in. We're walking on the stage, he's holding the curtain open for us to walk onto the risers. As I walk past him, I whisper/yelled "HAEF, you never gave out the solo!". We're in front of a full HSE auditorium, the track starts, and as the solo comes up, with a breath left, he points to ME! I was like asdsdfhgjl. 
He let me organize his music library, let me take extra lessons, use his microwave... Haefele was always picking on me, making me cry, calling me out for talking, and he was also one my favorite teachers I've ever had. If It wasn't for him, I would 100% not be teaching music or a jazz musician today. I'll be forever grateful for knowing him.
💔 rest in peace Mr. Haefele

Jim was a remarkable man who made a tremendous impact on me and so many others. 
I am a better person for having had his support, love and encouragement in high school. 
I have had a Mass offered for him and for the Haefele family. I pray that his memory is always a blessing for you, as it always will be for me.

I am so sorry to hear of Mr Haefale's untimely passing. He was such a huge inspiration to a Danish Exchange student at HHH HSE, that he was one of the reasons I went on to become a singer and voice teacher. He was a very special person and I will always keep him in my heart. Sincere condolences to his family and may he make blessed music in heaven. ❤😥🎶

I am simply devastated by the loss of such a vibrant and extraordinary teacher and mentor.  When I think of high school, I think of Mr. Haefele.  I consider myself fortunate beyond measure to have known him, and extend my deepest condolences to his family.  Gone too soon.

Jim made Half Hollow Hills a better place to work for the music department.   Your legacy will live on at HHH.   You will definitely be missed but your spirit will live on.    Your contributions to your faculty and students will never be forgotten.   I am sure you will be conducting great vocal harmonies in heaven.   My condolences to the family for your loss.   I was Laurie's vocal teacher at Burr's Lane Junior High.   I have wonderful memories of Jim and his wonderful concerts.    God bless your entire family!!!!

Jim always was willing to help anyone. I remember once struggling with a psalm and we practiced until it was absolutely perfect. when things were falling apart he was there to lift us up. Thank you Jim for everything ❤️

His voice and music brought me to tears every week at Church. I will think of him fondly and often at mass. God bless him and your whole family 🙏🏻❤️

I will always remember Mr. Haefele or Haef as we called him at Hills East. He was truly an encouragement in continuing my vocal pursuits. Whether it be NYSSMA SCEMEA vocal jazz voice lessons, chorus or shows we did - he always pushed me to reach my full potential. This includes my voice lessons and continuing in college. He will be missed.  My thoughts are with his entire family during this difficult time. 

OBITUARY

James Francis Haefele

August 3, 1954 – April 23, 2020

Coral Ridge Funeral Home & Cemetery

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