James Walter Dorschel was born in Rochester, NY on October 11, 1940, to Winona Stout Dorschel and Walter Joseph Dorschel. Jim passed away Monday, April 10 at his home in Canandaigua, NY after a wonderful Easter weekend with family and friends.

He is survived by Bonnie, his beloved wife of 55 years, daughter Winona McCarthy (son in law Patrick and granddaughters Caitlin and Emma), son Jim Dorschel (grandsons Franklin and Sam), and daughter Arianna Bennigsohn (son in law Bradley and grandson Jackson and granddaughter Riley James). He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister Judith Winona Dorschel.

Jim graduated from East High School and was an Eagle Scout at Tay House Troop 19. He studied business at the University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School, and was a member of the Psi Upsilon Fraternity. He served in both the US Army Reserve and NY Army National Guard. Jim was committed to the City of Rochester and worked for many years as Park District Superintendent. Jim and Bonnie met at the Purple Pig Restaurant in Bristol, NY and have been dancing through life ever since. They were part of a group of Third Ward residents committed to historical preservation and were instrumental in starting the neighborhood’s first Cornhill Art Show.

Jim was a loving husband, father, and dear friend with a generous spirit. He loved being in his garden, working on projects at home and managing his restaurants – first the Cafe Left Bank and later his food stand at the Rochester Public Market. Most of all, he loved being on Canandaigua Lake with family and friends.

A Memorial Service for Jim will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, April 22, 2023, at the Interfaith Chapel of Miller Funeral and Cremation Services, Inc. (3325 Winton Rd. S). His burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Jim’s memory to the Canandaigua Lake Watershed Association.
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