Saratoga Springs - Colonel James M Coyne, 77, peacefully passed away Friday January 10, 2025, at home.

James was born in Albany, NY to James W. Coyne (Tampa, Fl) and the late Virginia May (Phillips) Coyne. He was a graduate of St Joseph's where he was a standout basketball player, he graduated in 1965. He attended SUNY Albany where he earned a bachelor's degree and MBA.

Upon his high school graduation he entered into a full-time job with the GE Company. He held various positions and was also the shop steward in varying roles including the IUE AFL-CIO. He was a class A Machinist Repairman as well as a Journeyman electrician. James worked for GE Company until his retirement in 1997.

In 1966 he enlisted in the US Army. He arrived in Pleiku, Vietnam in Sept 1969 with the 4th Infantry Division. He was also with the 704th maintenance battalion. While in Vietnam he had a pet green parrot named Festus whom James spoke of many times throughout his life. He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal upon return to the US. In 1975 he joined the Army National Guard and continued his loyal, dedicated service to our country until his retirement in 2003.

James married the love of his life, Nancy Ellen Osterhout on June 20, 1970. They made a great team creating a home full of love and laughter and added Eric (Colleen) of Emmaus, PA, Traci (Michael) of Gansevoort, and Patrick of Ballston Spa to complete out their happy home. Sadly, James was predeceased by Nancy in 1990.

James is survived by his three children, as well as his grandson, Nathan Coyne of Ballston Spa. He is also survived by his brother, Brian (Mt Dora Fl) and predeceased by his brother, Mark. He is survived by many nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles, cousins and so many friends.

James was an avid sports and music fan. He was a walking trivia machine. He had a larger-than-life personality but he also enjoyed reading, puzzles and learning. He was completely dedicating to our country and his military accomplishments are too many to list...

Relatives and friends are invited to call from 4:00pm to 7:00pm on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at William J. Burke & Sons/ Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518) 584-5373.

A funeral home service will be held at 10:30am on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at the funeral home. Burial with military honors will be held at 12:00pm at the Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY.

In lieu of flowers we ask donations be made in James honor to the veteran's home in Ballston Spa, NY https://vchcny.org/ways-to-support/ .