James R. Cousens

James R. Cousens, 91, of Springvale died as he lived, peacefully and with dignity at Goodall Hospital in Sanford on February 10, 2013 following a brief illness. He was born on January 8, 1922 a son of the late Ralph E. and Lillian M. (Belyea) Cousens. He grew up in Saco, Bar Mills and Acton. He was a 1939 graduate of Sanford High School. He was a proud Army veteran of WWII, serving in the ETO and participated in the Battle of the Bulge. He was an expert sharpshooter who received European, African and Middle Eastern Theater campaign ribbons in addition to Victory Medals and a Bronze Star Medal.Following the war Jim married Karlyne Marilyn Beals in 1946. He was a garage man/mechanic and founded Jim's Alignment in Springvale which he operated for five decades prior to retiring in 1984.Jim was an active individual and during his life enjoyed most sports, water and cross country skiing, hiking, motorcycling and was an avid golfer. He was also involved in several civic organizations including the Grange, Masons and Kiwanis as well as the Springvale Fire Dept. As a couple Jim and Kay were always known for their love of Boxer dogs who were their "children."A fiercely independent individual, he maintained his own home and cared for his wife until the time of his passing.In addition to his parents Jim was predeceased by his sister, Shirley Cousens Palmer who passed away in 2004.He is survived by his wife, Karlyne B. Cousens of Springvale, his aunt Margaret Tyrell of Saco, two cousins and a niece. In addition he leaves close friends and neighbors, the Knights, the Bowkers, the Lawrences and Sean Dumont.A graveside service with military honors will be conducted in the spring in accordance with Jim's wishes at Riverside Cemetery in Springvale.Arrangements are under the direction of Black Funeral Homes & Cremation Service, Sanford-Springvale. Condolences can be expressed at the Condolences tab at left.