James Tatro passed away peacefully Friday August 5, 2011 with his loving wife of 39 years Candice (Batchelder) Tatro at his side. He was 74. Jim was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother. He leaves behind a legacy of strength of character and compassion towards others and excellence in academic pursuit. He was predeceased by his parents Genevieve (Gurka) St. Amand and Oris A. Tatro. In addition to his wife, he is survived by five children, Lance Tatro and his wife Naween Khan, Linda Buckland, Jamey Tatro and his wife Christine, Paul Tatro and his wife Jessica, Philip Tatro and his partner Max Talley; three grandchildren, Michael Buckland, Ryan Buckland, and Zane Tatro; and one sibling, Edward Tatro. Jim was born in Hartford on October 4, 1936. A longtime resident of Manchester, he graduated from Manchester High School in 1954. Jim received his undergraduate degree from Harvard University in 1958. Jim devoted his professional life to the education of others and pursuit of a better and more equitable education system. As a lover of history, he taught for many years at the high school and collegiate level and was recognized as an inspiration to students. Jim was a pioneer of the community college system. He worked tirelessly at Manchester Community College since its inception in 1963, where he established the Community Services Division and served as its dean. Jim was a passionate believer that everyone should have the opportunity for higher education and was respected in the academic community for his forward thinking. Jim was active in Manchester affairs and served for several years as a member of the town Planning and Zoning Commission and Manchester Scholarship Foundation. He loved playing bridge and was an avid baseball fan and memorabilia collector. Calling hours are Tuesday, August 9 from 4 to 8 pm at Tierney Funeral Home in Manchester. A mass celebrating his life will be held on Wednesday, August 10 at 11 a.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church in East Windsor. Memorial contributions may be sent to Manchester Scholarship Foundation, Adult Learner Scholarship, 20 Hartford Road, Manchester, CT 06040. For online condolences please visit www.tierneyfuneralhome.com.