James Scott Mortenson, known to most as “Jim” or “Lemon,” passed away peacefully at home on July 19, 2025, surrounded by the people he loved most. Born on June 20, 1960, at United Hospital in Port Chester, NY, Jim was a lifelong resident of Greenwich.
He often said, with a prideful smile, that he was “born and bred” in Byram. Jim graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1978, where he played football and baseball. After high school, he joined Putnam Service Station as a business partner, then moved on to Putnam Plumbing while attending apprentice school in Bridgeport to become a certified plumber. Jim later joined Connecticut Natural Gas Company, where he worked until his retirement. Not one to sit still, he later contributed his skills to Air Solutions.
Jim was predeceased by his parents, Robert Mortenson, Sr. and Ethel Frano Mortenson. He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 44 years, Maryann Kelly Mortenson; his daughters Shannon Fletcher (Paul) and Kelly “KK” Mortenson; and his beloved granddaughter, Phoenix Letendre—his “Dudette” to her “Dude,” a nickname he wore like a badge of honor. He also leaves behind his siblings Jean Mortenson, Robert Mortenson, Jr. (Stacy), and Cheryl Cerasoli (Don); nieces and nephews; a great niece and great nephews; and more cousins than we could ever list, each one cherished.
A lifelong fan of the L.A. Rams (we’re not sure why) and the New York Mets (eternal optimist), Jim loved sports of all kinds. He bowled, played in town and travel softball leagues, and hit the golf course every chance he got. He was a proud member of the Sokol Club and the Blue Jay Rod & Gun Club, where he enjoyed time in nature, good company, and stories that only got better in the retelling. Jim was also a lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Byram.
Jim was the life of the party, and had the gift of laughter and made friends wherever he went. If you were his friend, you were his friend for life.
Family and friends will gather on Thursday July 24, 2025 from 4:00-8:00pm at Coxe & Graziano Funeral Home 134 Hamilton Ave. Greenwich. A Service of Christian Victory will be held on Friday, July 25 at 11:00am at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Byram.
Jim and Maryann would like to express heartfelt thanks to the remarkable staff at Bendheim Cancer Center and Constellation Hospice Care for their expert care and compassion.
In lieu of flowers, and in gratitude for the exceptional care Jim received, donations in his memory may be sent to Office of Development, Greenwich Hospital, 35 River Road, Cos Cob, CT 06807, with Bendheim Cancer Center in the memo.