Born May 23, 1923, James Patrick Tivnan was one of five sons of the late Patrick and Bridget (Harvey) Tivnan. Raised and educated in the Grafton Hill neighborhood of Worcester he was a graduate of St. John’s High School.
Jim honorably served his country in the United States Army during World War II. Upon return from the War he earned his bachelor’s degree from Framingham State University. On Feb. 3, 1951, in Saint Anne’s Church, he married Elsa Borgatti. Jim and Elsa lived a short time in Miami where Jim worked for the telephone company. They returned home to Elsa’s native Shrewsbury and he became a power mechanics teacher at Doherty Memorial High School, where he taught for many years before retirement.
Jim Tivnan’s life was a circle of strength founded on faith, joined by love, and kept by God. He was an active member of Saint Anne’s Church. Jim was instrumental in the design, construction and installation of the beautiful stained glass window which is adorns the space above the altar at St. Anne’s. It is an image of the Good Shepherd and was lovingly donated to the memory of the Borgatti families.
He was an avid photographer and skier. As an accomplished golfer he won three club championships at Cranberry Valley Golf Club in Harwich.
He was predeceased by his brothers, Paul J., Francis, William and Raymond Tivnan, and his brother-in law and close friend, Anthony “Spag” Borgatti and his wife, Olive.
In addition to his wife and best friend, Elsa, he leaves many in-laws, including Robert A. and Mary R. (George) Borgatti, Dorothy E. Tivnan, Maureen Tivnan, all of Shrewsbury, and Barbara Tivnan of Worcester. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.
Family and friends will honor and remember Jim’s life by gathering for calling hours Wednesday, Dec. 28, from 9-10:30 a.m., at Heald & Chiampa Funeral Directors ~ The Sumner House, 5 Church Road, On the Common, Shrewsbury Center, before leaving in procession to Saint Anne’s Church, 130 Boston Tpke., where his funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Burial with military honors will follow in Mountain View Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorials in his name may be made to Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services, 240 Maple Ave., Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
