BRISTOL – James Laniewski, of Bristol, formerly of Litchfield, passed away Friday, Jan. 26, 2018.

Jim was born Oct. 2, 1948, in Waterbury, to Casimer and Elvina (Zbiek) Laniewski. He was a graduate of Kaynor Technical High School in Waterbury. Jim began his career in communications with AT&T and Comsat, formerly in Southbury, before settling in television.

Jim worked as an engineer at stations WBRE, WYOU and FOX 51 in northwest Pennsylvania before returning to Connecticut to complete his career at ESPN.

Jim spent many years in the East Litchfield Fire Department, eventually working his way up to deputy chief before his retirement.

Jim leaves behind his wife Katherine Laniewski, of Bristol. He also leaves behind his only daughter, Margaret Prahm, her husband David, of Thomaston, and his two grandsons, Brady James and Benjamin Prahm.

Jim was a great friend and mentor to many in his lifetime, and we can take comfort that he is hard at work, bringing heaven up to code and in full HD.

Friends and family may call at Rowe Funeral Home, 283 Torrington Road, Litchfield, on Friday from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; a funeral service will begin at 5:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask donations be sent to the East Litchfield Volunteer Fire Department, 365 East Litchfield Road, Litchfield, CT 06759.

Kindly visit rowefuneralhome.net to send the family an online condolence.