Dunkirk: Robert “Jim” Finch, Marine, Agri-Businessman & Farmer, age 91, passed away Sunday, January 18, 2026. He was born Robert James Finch in Warsaw, NY on August 22, 1934, to the late Gerald and Marian (Shererd) Finch.
Jim was a graduate of Letchworth High School and served in the US Marine Corps. After moving to Chautauqua County he made his home in Cassadaga and more recently moved to Dunkirk. Jim was a farmer down to the marrow of his bones. Over the years, he had a dairy farm, raised hogs and was a draft horse aficionado. He retired after 30 years working as an AI Technician for the former Eastern AI Co-op & Genex. Jim was a strong supporter of perpetuating farm and rural life. For over 50 years he contributed his time, talent and resources to the Chautauqua County 4-H program.
Survivors include two daughters; Kathleen Finch of Dunkirk & Linda Diate of Murfreesboro, TN, and one sister; Eleanor Barth of Warsaw. Also surviving are four grandchildren; Jennifer (Devon) Laurito Jones, Melissa (Daniel) Struzynski, Joseph Diate & Travis (Haley) Diate and seven great grandchildren; Jared, Evan Aidan, Maddox, Hadley, Lexie & Quinn. Besides his parents he was predeceased by his wife Jeanette “Jan” (Chapman) Finch, whom he married on December 28, 1956 and who died on July 11, 1999, his daughter; Karen Rybij who died December 7, 2016, a sister and two brothers.
A private Celebration of Life is planned for summer. The family suggests memorials may be made to the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation: 4-H Endowment Fund, 418 Spring Street, Jamestown, NY 14701. Please honor Jim by taking a moment to perform a random act of kindness or share a great story that makes you chuckle & shake your head – that is who Jim Finch was.
Arrangements are by Riles & Woolley Funeral Home, Forestville. To post condolences or memories go to https://rilesandwoolleyfuneralhome.com.
1 Comment
Stephanie Schell
Served his community as a volunteer for the 4-H program.