James P. Dittami

PRINCETON - James P. "Jim" Dittami, 71, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at UMass University campus, surrounded by his loving family, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Medford, Jim was the cherished son of Francis and Rose Dittami. He received his early education in Sherborn and at Marian High School in Framingham, later earning a Bachelor of Arts from the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester. Jim furthered his studies at Boston College, where he obtained his Master's Degree, and completed his Doctor of Philosophy in synthetic organic chemistry at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, studying under Arthur G. Schultz. His postdoctoral studies were conducted with E.J. Corey at Harvard University.

Jim had a distinguished career at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), where he served for 39 years and was Head of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry from 1995 to 2005. His research, which focused on new synthetic methods, natural product synthesis, and therapeutically active analogs, was supported by the National Institutes of Health and major companies such as Pfizer, Abbott, and Pharmacia Upjohn. Jim was also involved in outreach programs, engaging WPI undergraduates in hands-on science education in local school districts and contributing to numerous professional service roles, including advisory boards and review panels.

During a sabbatical in Puerto Rico, Jim met Marisol, the owner of the hotel and restaurant where he was staying. Their initial friendship evolved into a deep and lasting love. Despite an initial rejection, Jim's unwavering affection eventually won Marisol's heart, leading to a fulfilling 25-year marriage.

Outside of his professional life, Jim enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson Sportster 1200 with Marisol, fishing in tranquil streams, and pursuing hunting as a sport (even though he would never kill an animal).

Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Marisol Dittami; his beloved sons, Nicholas Dittami and his wife Alyssa of Oakham, Julian Dittami of Worcester, and Ed Sanabria of Spencer; his dear siblings, Peter Dittami and his wife Louise of Framingham, Lou Dittami and his wife Pat of Milford, Alex Dittami and his wife Kathy of Florida, Mary Rose Wells and her husband Greg of Ashland, Richard Dittami from Canada; and his cherished grandchildren, Anthony and Sophia Dittami. He was predeceased by his brothers, Francis and John Dittami, and his sisters, Joan and Margaret Dittami.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather with Jim's family at a visitation on Saturday, September 7, 2024, from 11:00 am to 2 pm. at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jim's honor can be made to a charity of your choice.

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