FRANKLIN: James Arthur Veum

James Arthur Veum, 97, of Franklin, passed away peacefully at home on March 10, 2026, leaving behind a life richly lived and deeply appreciated by all who knew him. Born in Strum, Wisconsin, he was the son of the late Willma (Lowe) Veum and James Arnold Veum, and the beloved husband of the late Carol Veum, with whom he shared a remarkable 67 years of marriage.

Jim graduated from Eau Claire High School and the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire. He served four years in the U.S. Navy, where he met Carol while they were both stationed in San Diego. They married in 1954 and later made their home in Framingham, where they spent 57 happy years building a family and a community of lasting friendships. Jim devoted his professional career to The New England, where he worked until his retirement in 1993.

Jim will be remembered for his kindness, humility, and quiet generosity. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he found deep joy in life’s simple pleasures and in the people who surrounded him.

Jim and Carol shared a love of travel and adventure. They spent many winters in Florida and Bermuda, explored the country together in their RV, and traveled abroad to England, Europe, and Norway. Whenever he could, Jim made his way back to Wisconsin to reconnect with family and friends. He especially treasured the many reunions with a close-knit group of Navy friends who remained in touch throughout their lives.

At home, Jim took great pride in growing exceptional tomatoes, happily sharing his harvest with neighbors and friends. Active and energetic throughout his life, he was an avid runner who completed a marathon in his 50th year. He also loved hiking, camping, and pursuing his lifelong passion for golf.

Sharp-minded and quick-witted, Jim enjoyed playing bridge and cribbage right up to his final week. Above all, he was known for his genuine interest in others, his readiness to lend a helping hand, and his remarkable ability to see the good in everyone. Those who knew Jim will remember a man who lived with warmth, generosity, and quiet grace.

Jim is survived by his beloved children, Linda Veum and her husband Bipin Patel of Ronan, Montana; Holly Veum of Ashland; and Nancy McDermott and her husband Michael of Bellingham. He also leaves his cherished grandchildren, Samantha and Madelyn McDermott, and his sister, Hjordis Olson of Janesville, Wisconsin. He was predeceased by his sister, Arlie Schwoch.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, March 20, at 10:00 a.m. at Plymouth Church, 87 Edgell Road, Framingham. The service will be livestreamed and recorded for those who can’t make it in person (www.youtube.com/PlymouthChurchFramingham). A private interment will take place at Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s memory may be made to the Compassionate Care Hospice (Amedisys, 800 W Cummings Park, Suite 3100, Woburn, MA 01801) who took such loving care of him at the end or to Plymouth Church.