James C. Maxwell

James C. Maxwell, age 76, of Harvard, MA, passed away peacefully on July 25, surrounded by his loving family after a five-year battle with ALS, a diagnosis he bore with dignity and strength. 

 Born on April 24, 1948, in Lake City, Minnesota, to Kathleen and Francis Maxwell, Jim was the oldest of seven. The family lived in suburbs of Chicago, where Jim learned to count by watching the long freight trains. The Maxwells moved to Massachusetts in 1956; Jim graduated from Wellesley High School in 1966. He was a loving husband to Mary (Flaherty) for over 55 years and a devoted father to Jeffrey Maxwell (Jill), of Acton, MA; Gregory Maxwell (Maya Minkin), of Acton, MA; Alissa Weiss (Eric) of Harvard; and Kerry Maxwell (Shad Neiss) of Harvard. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Summer, Nosara, Charlie, Beatrice, Oscar, and Etta Maxwell; Maxwell, Hudson, and Finley Weiss; and Mary Kate and Jacob Neiss; and by siblings Thomas Maxwell (Lynn Hamlin), Kathleen Maxwell (Paul Sullam), Josephine Grahn (Allen), Jack Maxwell (Dana), and Carroll Maxwell (Buzz Kuhns). He was predeceased by his brother Daniel Maxwell (Betty). He leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. 

 For forty years Jim led Hub Foundation Co., Inc., the foundation construction company founded by his father in 1966, where he was still actively involved until his passing. He grew the company from 20 employees to 120, pivoting the company’s focus from pile driving to drilled shafts, making himself an industry pioneer in the process. Respected by his colleagues and cherished by those who knew him, Jim was recognized for his contributions to the field by the Association of Drilled Shaft Contractors with their Living Legend award, which they created in his honor, and by The Moles with their 2024 Outstanding Achievement in Construction Award. Nevertheless, he typically introduced himself as Hub’s “chief cook and bottle washer.” 

 Jim and Mary moved to Harvard in 1972. His answer to the oil embargo was to fabricate a clover-shaped woodstove and cut cords and cords of wood, heating their first house on Mass. Ave. this way for 10 years, much to the chagrin of his young sons. “If it’s worth doing,” he used to say, “it’s worth overdoing.” He enjoyed a well-made Manhattan, hiking trails in Harvard and in national parks with Mary, and spending time with his family. He dabbled in cycling, fishing, beekeeping, and photography. Jim was passionate about traveling and exploring new cultures, but always found his way back to the shores of Harvard’s Bare Hill Pond. A resident of Harvard for more than 50 years, Jim protected hatchling turtles; chased raccoons away from his chickens; once climbed to the top rung of a 40-foot extension ladder to rescue the family cat in a tree; and was interminably engaged in a Caddyshack-worthy battle with the beaver across the street to keep the culvert clear. Jim loved a tall tale; as he often said, “never let the facts get in the way of a good story.” Jim was a member of St. Theresa, The Little Flower (Holy Trinity Catholic Parish) and enjoyed bringing coffee and donuts to the 7:30 mass.

 He will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for his family and friends and for always responding “magnificent” when asked how he was doing. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

 A Celebration of Life will be held from 4pm to 7pm on Friday, August 23 at the Maynard Rod and Gun Club, 45 Old Mill Road, Maynard, MA 01754. A funeral mass will be held on August 24 at 11am at St. Benedict Abbey, 252 Still River Road, Harvard, MA with a family visitation from 10-11am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Compassionate Care ALS, P.O. Box 1052, West Falmouth, MA 02574 or The Nativity School of Worcester, 67 Lincoln Street, Worcester, MA 01605. 

 The family would like to thank the Harvard Ambulance Service and especially Jim's caregivers for their kindness and care throughout his illness.