ONEONTA – James Ralph Nissen, 76, formerly of Schenevus, passed away Tuesday, December 18, 2012 at the Chestnut Park Nursing Home in Oneonta.

Born in Delhi, NY on August 15, 1936, he was the son of Ralph P. and Pauline (Wright) Nissen. He grew up in Davenport and graduated from Charlotte Valley Central School, Class of 1954.

Jim married Harriet Schambers Willenbacher on September 24, 1977 while flying over Oneonta in The Queen Air. Harriet was his faithful companion. They loved traveling together and spending time in Florida, where they lived for a few years.

Jim had his own business buying and selling pulpwood, plus working in the woods for many years. He was always an honest man in all his business dealings. Everyone who met and knew him liked Jim. He also worked as a bus driver for Schenevus Central School.

In his retirement he loved adventure and experienced jumping out of plane, going up in a hot air balloon and riding his scooter to many places, and even with a few mishaps he kept going. Jim had a pilot's license and enjoyed flying. His sisters recall lots of adventures with Jim and his old Model T car when they were growing up together. He will be missed but the wonderful times we all had with him will always be remembered.

He is survived by his wife, Harriet Nissen; four sons, Erik Nissen, Keith Nissen, Rolf Nissen and Danny Nissen; step children, Cindy Blanchard and Thomas Willenbacher, Jr.; sisters, Lucille Conroe, Doris Bourgeois and Elaine Bourgeois; many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., January 26, 2013 at the Worcester United Methodist Church, Main Street, Worcester. The memorial service will begin at 11 a.m.

Donations may be made to the charity of ones choice.

Expressions of sympathy may be made at, www.hellerfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are under the guidance of the Heller Funeral Home, 25 Arch St., Schenevus.