James Lawrence Waitkus, 66, of West Hartford, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 26, 2016 at St. Francis Hospital. Son of the late Alexander and Noreen Waitkus, he was born on October 14, 1949 in Hartford, CT. James graduated from Western New England College with a degree in Law Enforcement. He worked for the State of Connecticut as a UConn Police Officer, a Bradley Airport Police Officer, and as a Connecticut State Trooper. Upon his retirement from the State of Connecticut in 1993, he worked as a Judicial Marshal for the Connecticut Judicial Branch and finished his working career as a private Security Officer. James loved the beach, boating, being on the water and a good lobster. James loved dogs having owned golden retrievers and a clumber spaniel. He was an avid runner during his younger years and ran in the Manchester Road Race on several occasions. He leaves behind his three children Meaghan Dellafiore and her husband, Rudy Dellafiore, of Lake Worth, FL, Brendan Waitkus and Garrett Waitkus of Hebron, CT; two grandchildren, Robert Anthony and Madison Faye Dellafiore, his former wife, mother of his children and longtime friend, Linda Bromley Waitkus of Hebron,CT; his sister Kathleen Morino and niece Brittany Morino of Bellflower, CA and numerous cousins. It was James's wish to be cremated with no calling hours. A private memorial service will be held at the discretion of the family. Memorial donations may be made to Horizons, Inc., PO Box 323, South Windham, CT 06266. For online condolences please visit www.tierneyfuneralhome.com.