SOUTH PORTLAND – Ninety-one years young, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend to many, James Catlin Orem passed away Feb. 19, 2023. Jim lived a full and happy life in Indiana and continuing in later years in Maine. Married almost 70 years to his high school sweetheart, Virginia Ellen (Means) Orem, Jim lived the last 20 years in South Portland.

Jim is survived by his wife Ginny; daughter Carole, son David and wife Peggie, son Stephen; grandchildren Parker, Quentin and wife Madeline, Elizabeth, Hannah; and great granddaughter Grace.

Born July 27, 1931, Jim was the son of Vernon and Bertha (Catlin) Orem of Jeffersonville, Ind., descendants of colonial and pioneer families. A product of Indianapolis public schools and Arsenal Technical High School, class of 1949, Jim was one of the first in his family to go to college, and he graduated through Army ROTC from Purdue University with a BS in Chemical Engineering in 1953.

Family was the focus of Jim’s life. He and Ginny moved to Maine to be near and help their daughter and grandson. Jim kept lifelong friendships from his youth and working days and was always happy to be neighborly. He was able to give generously of his time and skills to many.

Jim lived a full and happy life, and his presence will be greatly missed. We will keep his memory alive and look forward to the day we meet again.

A graveside service will be arranged in the Spring. Please see the Hobbs Funeral Home website (www.hobbsfuneralhome.com) for more information about Jim.