James Roy Wachob

CDR James R. Wachob, USN, (Retired)

Passed away on July 16, 2023 at his home in Penn Yan, surrounded by loved ones. He was 90.    

Born in Niagara Falls, NY on June 29, 1933 to Ray T. and Mary E. (Myers) Wachob, he was the second of what was to become a total of three children, all boys. Most of his childhood was spent in Niagara Falls and Sistersville, WV before the family moved to Yates County in 1944.  Jim graduated from Penn Yan Academy in 1951 as President of his class.  He was a proud member of the football, wrestling, and track teams, and was inducted into the PYA Athletic Hall of Fame in 2022, along with his track team members from the 1950 season.  He graduated from Cortland State Teachers College in 1955.  During this year, he entered Officer Candidate School for the United States Navy and was Commissioned as an Ensign in 1957.   

He married Vivian Kiwisild on April 16, 1960 in Buffalo, NY.  Jim’s military career and varied duty stations afforded him extensive travel throughout the world.  While serving this nation, he also earned his Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Central Michigan University.  After retiring from the Navy in 1979, Jim moved the family back to Penn Yan.  

He initially became the Personnel Director at Coach and Equipment Manufacturing.  He returned to teaching in 1988 at Penn Yan Middle School where he taught until his retirement there in 2000.  He belonged to the VFW, and volunteered at the Finger Lakes Boating Museum, Yates County History Center, and Penn Yan’s Zoning Board of Appeals. He was also a certified genealogical researcher.

He leaves behind his wife, Vivian of Penn Yan, brother Ray of Syracuse, daughter Heather of Penn Yan, son Grant (Kristina) of Massena, grandchildren Ian and Reese of Massena, and Rayna Rios, of Penn Yan. Also surviving him are many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

The family will receive friends at the Weldon Funeral Home, 102 E. Main Street, Penn Yan on Thursday July 27th from 12:00pm to 1:00pm, with the celebration of a “life well lived”, at the funeral home starting at 1:00pm; Pastor Tom Wunder officiating.  Mrs. Connie Gibson will be the organist.  Burial will follow at Lakeview Cemetery with full military honors.  All arrangements are being provided by Weldon Funeral Home.  In lieu of flowers, one may make a donation to the Yates County History Center, 107 Chapel Street, Penn Yan, NY 14527 or to the charity of one’s choice.  To offer condolences or share a memory, please visit www.WeldonFuneralHome.com