James R. Chase

RICHBURG — James R. Chase, 65, of Richburg, passed peacefully, surrounded by friends and family, on Friday (Jan. 2, 2026) at Jones Memorial Hospital, after battling ALS.

Born Oct. 22, 1960, in Jamestown, he was the son of John R. Chase and Jeanette Ramsdell Austin. On April 26, 1986, in Allegany, he married the former Barbara Thomas, who predeceased him June 5, 2015. Later, on July 29, 2017, in Richburg, he married Ixa Morales.

James was a graduate of Allegany Central School. He then enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving from Dec. 6, 1978, until his retirement on Jan. 31, 2000. Part of his service was spent as a proud member of the Seabees.

Following his military service, he began a career with Saputo (formerly Friendship Dairies), where he worked for 25 years until his retirement on Nov. 30, 2025.

He was a member and the current Commander of the Kenyon Andrus American Legion Post 772 in Bolivar.

Known to his friends as Jimbo, he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, shooting pool, gardening, playing horseshoes, hosting bonfires and camping.

He is survived by his wife, Ixa Morales-Chase of Richburg; his children, Joseph Chase of Roanoke, Va. and Kelley Chase of Elmira; his stepchildren, Charles (Danielle) Morales of San Diego, Calif. and Rachel Lundy of Delevan; his grandchildren, Karson, Kaylor and Kamryn Ahrens, Andi and Aidan Prentice, Ryan Lewis, Damien Billings and William Lundy; a sister, Beth (Chase) Hamm of Tampa, Fla.; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Amy Chase; and a stepson, Andrew Prentice.

Friends will be received from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Saturday (Jan. 10, 2026) at the Mark F. Rinker Funeral Home & Memorial Service, Inc., 554 S. Main St., Bolivar, at which time a Celebration of Life Service will be held. Rev. Jennifer Green will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the ALS Association at ALS.org.

Online condolences may be sent at www.rinkerfuneralhome.com.