Obituary

Bedford, NH—James E. Ehrlich, 44, passed away Sunday, Dec. 7, 2008 at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, NH from a short but courageous battle with melanoma cancer. Jim was born on June 6, 1964 in Poughkeepsie, NY, son of Janet and Edward C. Ehrlich, Jr. of Hilton Head Island, SC. Raised in Natick, MA, Jim graduated from Natick High School in 1982, where he excelled both academically and athletically. He graduated from Columbia University in 1986 with a degree in industrial engineering, and was captain of the varsity swim team.

Jim was employed by Chubb Life in Concord, NH for over a decade, and later moved to Houston, TX for employment with American General Life from 1998-2002. From 2002-2004 Jim ran his own voluntary insurance company from Bedford. Jim’s most recent position was Client Executive for Marsh & McClennan. His strong work ethic and enduring optimism made him the ideal colleague, problem solver, and peer mentor. He was a man of honesty and integrity, respected by all who had the pleasure of working with him. He was truly a humble gentleman.

Most known for his animated, witty sense of humor, Jim could have you laughing hysterically at his quick one-liners and polished joke telling. His permanent smile and sparkling blue eyes could light up a room. He instantly made others feel comfortable, and would do anything to help someone in need. Children of all ages flocked to him like the Pied Piper. He was everyone’s Uncle Jimmy. He brought out the best in others, and was a tremendous encourager, leader, and exemplary role model.

Jim’s high energy level was an incredible asset, especially when he applied it to his favorite hobbies and sports. He loved fishing, board games, do-it-yourself projects, vacationing at Cape Cod and Newfound Lake, and spending quality time with his family. Throughout his life he enjoyed tennis, golf, basketball, and working out, but his real passion was swimming. In 1981 and 1982 he received the Boston Globe All-Scholastic Boys Swim Team award in 100-meter backstroke, and set numerous swim records at Natick High School and with the Barracudas team.

The two most important things to Jim were his faith and his family. He applied his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ to everything he did, giving him true meaning and purpose for his life. He was particularly fond of his fellow believers at Bedford Community Church, and the group of close friends that shared in his spiritual journey.

Jim’s devotion to his wife and children was undeniable and abundant in love. He is survived by his beloved wife Christine G. (Anderson) Ehrlich and two daughters, Dana (7) and Lauren (9). He also leaves five siblings: Susan Ehrlich (AZ), Catherine Ehrlich (NY), Stephen Ehrlich (PA), John Ehrlich (GA), and Karen Zotos (TX), as well as eleven nieces and nephews.

Despite the negative news we continually hear, Jim was a reflection of all that is still good in the world. He will be immeasurably missed by all who knew and loved him. A memorial service will take place Saturday Dec. 13, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at the Crown Plaza Hotel, Nashua, NH. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the James Ehrlich Memorial Fund c/o TD Banknorth, 184 Route 101, Bedford, NH 03110. To post a memory, photo or read more about Jim’s life, go to www.tributetojim.blogspot.com