James J. Jovenich, M.D.

Carlisle - James J. Jovenich M.D., 83, of Rumney, NH, longtime resident of Carlisle, MA. Surrounded by his family, Jim passed away peacefully on September 14, 2024, after an incredibly full life.

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he was the son of the late Irma Nario López. Jim is survived by his beloved partner, Ann Marie McLaughlin, with whom he shared a loving commitment of 39 years; daughter, Brenda Jovenich; son, Paul Jovenich; son-in-law, Joseph Terlato; adored grandchildren, Joseph, Carolina and Nicolas; dear cousins in Santiago, Chile; the McLaughlin and Mancini families; and his lifelong friend, Eduardo Mancini.

A medical school graduate of the National University of Buenos Aires, Jim completed a two year anesthesia residency in Argentina. Interested in pursuing his anesthesiology career, he came to the United States to join residency programs at Duke University and Columbia Presbyterian Hospital followed by fellowships at Harvard Medical School, where he held teaching titles during his work at Massachusetts General Hospital and Mass Eye and Ear. Jim went on to practice anesthesiology for 38 years at the Lahey Clinic, where he held teaching titles from Tufts University and served as member of the pension committee and Board of Governors (2002-2007).

Upon retirement in 2011, Jim completed a two year Cabinet and Furniture Making program at the North Bennet Street School in Boston. He had the time of his life learning how to make beautiful furniture. An avid sailor, Jim served as a member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, Charles River Flotilla for 30 years and was a Qualified Instructor, teaching boating safety classes for many years. Riding motorcycles gave him constant joy, traveling across the United States, Europe, Chile and Argentina. Jim was a unique man with a great sense of humor and will be deeply missed.

The family would like to thank the Beth Israel Lahey Health at Home for loving hospice care. It was Jim’s wish that any charitable donations in his memory be made to North Bennet Street School’s Cabinet & Furniture Making program, 150 North St., Boston, MA 02109.

Relatives and friends are invited to Jim’s Celebration of Life on Wednesday, Sept. 18, from 4 until 7 PM at the Westford Healy Funeral Home, 57 N. Main Street, Westford. Jim’s Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday morning, Sept. 19, at 10:30 AM in St. Irene’s Church, 181 East St., Carlisle. Kindly gather at the church. Burial will follow in the Green Cemetery, Carlisle.