Worcester - Jim Dagle treasured time spent with his son, Brennan. He taught him how to fish at Lake Quinsigamond and together they built a boat on which they enjoyed many rides and fishing expeditions. Jim and Brennan explored Worcester's dining scene and were frequent patrons of many familiar destinations including Belsito's and Lou Roc's among many others. These were simple times as father and son…and friend for twenty-nine years.
He was an excellent cook (on a budget) and prepared many great dishes including his famous trout chowdah and signature omelet garnished with ham, cheese, tomatoes, and caramelized onion. Jim and Brennan played Keno and tried their luck on scratch tickets every Saturday before enjoying a game of pool or candlepin bowling. He was active in Brennan's youth baseball, tennis, football, and basketball, and together they shared loyalty to Boston sports, especially the Red Sox and Patriots.
Jim beamed with pride knowing his only child will soon graduate as MD from UMass Chan Medical School, with dreams of serving the Worcester community that Jim so much loved as a family medicine physician. Jim's life inspired Brennan to create the UMMS community garden and food pantry to help reduce hunger in Worcester.
Jim's mother gave him an 'Always Right Card'. And…for all those who knew Jim could testify to two things: he was smart and knowledgeable on so many varied subjects and….in a conversation or polite argument… Jim was going to win because he was 'always right'. Deep down he was a very thoughtful, sensitive person.
James Kevin Dagle was born March 4, 1958 in Worcester and attended North High School. He was a proud son of Worcester and loved its history, museums and architecture and on many accounts considered himself a Worcester legend and he loved sharing these interests and passions with Brennan on their adventures out and about. He was a championship billiards player who ran pool leagues in Worcester for decades.
He worked at Wyman Gordon's as a mechanic and rose to the position of master inspector. Upon its closing he shifted gears and followed his passion and talent for graphic arts. He owned and operated 'Advertise Signs Company' which he ran for many years and was proud to have created and installed many signs at businesses throughout the Worcester area.
Jim died on Saturday, November 27, 2021 in UMASS Medical Center after a battle with liver cancer. He was 63.
He leaves his son, Brennan P. Dagle of Holden; his parents, Donald A. Dagle (Emma) of Shrewsbury and Elaine (Forhan) Dagle; his brothers, Robert A. Dagle (Nicole) of Plantation, Florida, Steven M. Dagle (Laura) of Fort Wayne, Indiana and Michael P. Dagle of Crossville, Tennessee; his former wife, Carolee (Burke) Dagle of Holden; also survived by nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Family and friends will honor and remember Jim's life by gathering on Friday, December 3rd for calling hours in The Eastern Shore Club, 206 South Quinsigamond Avenue, Shrewsbury from 10 a.m. to 12 Noon followed by a service at 12 Noon. Burial is private. Jim's family politely requests masks be worn during services.
Memorials in Jim's name honor his son's commitment and belief that 'Food is Medicine' to the UMASS Chan Medical School Community Garden Program, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA 01655.
Arrangements by James & John Heald