James J. Szmyt

James J. Szmyt, 61, of Belchertown, passed away at home on Saturday, May 24, 2025. Son of the late Jospeh and Loretta (Krzesik) Szmyt, he was born in Springfield on March 28, 1964. A graduate of Minnechaug High School, Jim enjoyed his time working at Baystate Health Care. Jim was raised in a Polish household and honored the traditions of delicious Polish food and lots of polka music. Jim loved to drive and drove cross country not once but twice. Jim’s most important role in life was father to his two children Jon and Julia. He loved supporting his children at school, in sports, through extra-curricular activities and as young adults. Jim loved being outdoors, enjoying the sunshine and time spent at Quabbin Reservoir. Later in life, Jim took an avid interest in cooking and politics. Throughout his entire life, Jim loved cars, fixing them, driving them and admiring them.

Jim is survived by his children Jonathan and Julia of Wilbraham; their mother, Anne-Marie Matosky Szmyt; his sister Pamela Szmyt-Hastings and her husband Scott; his brother Ken Szmyt as well as his nieces and nephews: Dalton, Stephanie, Katy, Ryder and Karoline and extended family and friends

Visiting hours for Jim will be Thursday, June 5, 2025 from 4:00-6:00 PM at the Kapinos-Mazur Funeral Home, 64 Sewall St., Ludlow, MA, concluding with a service at 6:00 PM. Burial will private, at the convenience of the family. In honor of Jim’s faithful companions, Lucky and Buttons, donations in his memory may be made to Dakin Humane Society, 171 Union St, Springfield, MA 01105.