James A. Quale was born July 21, 1944, in Benson, Minnesota, to Albert and Thelma Quale. He spent his early years with his mother. When he was 7, Jim moved in with his uncle and aunt, Garfield and Borghild Arneson. He lived with them through 1st grade and part of 2nd grade, while attending a one-room schoolhouse where one teacher taught all 8 grades. Jim then returned to live with his mother and attended multiple schools, ultimately graduating from Minneapolis South High School in 1962.

That same year, Jim joined the U.S. Air Force, serving from 1962-1966. During that time, Jim was stationed at Lackland AFB in Texas and at Ellsworth AFB in South Dakota. He was also stationed in Vietnam and Thailand. Jim felt incredibly honored to serve his country.

After his honorable discharge, Jim began his career in the banking industry. He worked during the day and took evening classes at the University of Minnesota, where he earned his bachelor’s degree.

In 1974, Jim met the love of his life, John Olson. They spent 22 loving years together. Sadly, John passed away in 1996 from lung cancer. Jim’s banking career took them from Minneapolis to New Orleans to Boston. They loved to travel and took every chance they had to see a new place.

Jim loved trains and tractors. After retiring, he volunteered as a conductor at Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. and Museum. Jim was also the family historian and the go-to person for any genealogy questions. His love of history was undeniable. Jim was also very generous and donated to many charities including Fenway Community Health Center and Boston Living Center. Jim spent his summers in Maine and winters in Pompano Beach, Florida. He enjoyed the warm sunshine and ample golfing opportunities.

Although Jim’s early years were not easy, he had a deep love for his family and a deep-rooted faith. He was active in the Episcopal Church until his final days. Anyone who knew Jim also knew he was a staunch Republican, a bit stubborn, very independent, and oh how he loved watching Fox News with his nightly martini. He also loved to cook, especially Thanksgiving dinner to share with his cherished friends. Jim read 4 newspapers daily, worked multiple sudoku puzzles, and watched farm shows on YouTube to pass the time.

On August 4, 2013, Jim married Danny Setio. They traveled to many destinations together, with Disney World being a favorite. Jim and Danny made their home in Deerfield Beach, Florida, in 2019. The Florida sunshine won Jim over, but his love for Maine remained.

Jim was preceded in death by the love of his life John, his parents, and his brothers Stanley, Glenn, Dennis, sister Rae. He is survived by spouse Danny, nephews David Archer, Steven Archer, Terry Archer, Craig Quale, Todd Quale, and Troy Quale; nieces Sandy Moehrle, Pam Kelly, Robin Rousseau and LeeAnn Kowalski. He is further survived by extended family and dear friends, including his best friend of 50+ years, John Ellis, and many others who meant so much to him.

A special thank you to The Woodlands and TrustBridge Hospice at John Knox Village for taking such wonderful care of Jim during his last days. The entire staff at John Knox Village was amazing and went above and beyond. Additionally thank you to St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church for their prayers and Father Andrew, Father Craig, and Gena Vallee for their visits and support.

A private interment with military honors will take place at First Parish Cemetery: 180 York St in York, ME on 9/11/2026 at 11am.

Professional arrangements are entrusted to:

Gary Panoch Funeral Home: 6140 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton, FL 33487, 561-997-8580

Along with:

Lucas and Eaton Funeral Home: 91 Long Sands Rd, York, ME 03909, 207-363-3531

• www.gpanochfunerals.com

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