James W. Schnars, 92, of Jamestown, NY passed away on August 16, 2026.

He was born on August 12, 1934, in Busti, NY to the late Harry and Ethel (Hill) Schnars.

He grew up in Kennedy, NY and from 1939-1945 attended Poland Center School District #5, a one room schoolhouse. He graduated from Falconer Central School in 1952 where he excelled in both academics and sports. He was the Junior class president and also the recipient of the Optimist Club of Jamestown Junior Citizen award.

After graduation, he joined the Navy on August 7, 1952, just prior to his 18th birthday. He was honorably discharged on August 12, 1955, his 21st birthday.

He attended Alfred State College and later graduated from Jamestown Community College.

In 1957 he began his banking career at Marine Midland Bank as an adjuster, advancing to Vice President and Branch Manager. Throughout his career he also worked for First Trust, Fleet Norstar and Fleet Bank in Buffalo retiring as Vice President in 1995.

Jim earned a reputation of being a very respected and distinguished banker and business analyst in the community.

He served on many local Board of Directors including Jamestown Housing Authority, Chautauqua Striders, Chautauqua Lake Association, Lutheran Social Services, The Optimist Club and Boy Scouts of America.

He married Martha Tracy "the love of his life" on August 4, 2001. They enjoyed many years together in their home in West Ellicott with their pets, Pheobe, Barney and Jocko. He loved spending time with his family, cherished friendships, enjoyed reading, golf, the beach, and traveling.

He truly lived his life to the fullest leading with honesty, integrity and a strong belief in the Golden Rule "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you".

Surviving are his two children; Lori Pollaro of Gerry, NY and Mark Schnars of Aiken, SC, grandchildren; Nicole Bourqault, Ryan Prinzi (Ashley), Seth Schnars, Josh Schnars, Kirsten Northrup (Albert), and Emily Schnars, great grandchildren; Lexi Prinzi, Charlotte Bourqault and Jack Schnars; a brother Harry Schnars and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death his beloved wife Martha, his son Martin Schnars, his son-in-law Sterling Pollaro, and his siblings Charles Schnars, Leslie Schnars and Harriet Apthorpe.

A service will be held on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 3 p.m. at Lind Funeral Home.

Memorial donations may be made to the Chautauqua County Humane Society or Chautauqua Hospice and Palliative Care.