Obituary of James O’Rourke

September 18, 2019

James Vincent O'Rourke passed peacefully on the evening of Wednesday, September 18, 2019, after a heroic and valiant 3 year cancer battle, at the age of 41. Jim's physical and mental fortitude were extraordinary throughout his entire life, and most notably throughout the years following his diagnosis.

Jim, who stood at an impressive 6 foot 5 inches tall, was a larger than life physical presence. An elite athlete, Jim competed at Moravian College as a high jumper and basketball player. He continued to play basketball for many years in NYC. Jim would spend as much time as possible traveling, most often on the ski slopes, and was a fearless and accomplished backcountry skier.

His physical presence was rivaled only by the depth of his character and the size of his heart. Jim's innate kindness and integrity were reflected in everything he did, and by the sheer number of people who called Jim a friend. His positivity was palpable- he was an inspiration to all who knew him. Jim was a true gentleman, selfless in all regards, quick witted and charismatic.

Jim had an accomplished 20 year career as an esteemed advertising executive, most recently at Havas Life and Health4Brands, where he was an engaging, intelligent, and compassionate leader. During this time, he lived and worked in Manhattan (and most recently Brooklyn), where he truly felt at home.

Most notably though, Jim was a devoted husband to Rachel, who unwaveringly stood by his side, and a proud and loving father to their beautiful, almost 2 year old son, Adam Seamus. The love that was shared between Rachel and Jim was beyond measure.

Jim is survived by his loving wife Rachel, his son Adam, his father, Vincent O'Rourke, sisters Meaghan (and Tim) Miller and Kathleen (and Ed) Eighmey. Jim's four nephews, Colin Miller, Patrick Miller, Jack Miller and Edward Eighmey, will forever hold their Uncle Jimmy in their hearts. Jim is predeceased by his mother, Margaret Byrne O'Rourke. Jim's extended O'Rourke/Byrne and Menick/Barreto families will all miss him dearly.

Visitation will be held at the Greenwich Village Funeral Home,199 Bleecker Street, Manhattan, Sunday, September 22nd from 2-5pm and 7-9pm. Funeral Mass will be held Monday, September 23rd at 10:30am at The Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral, at Mott Street between Prince and Houston Streets, Manhattan. Relatives and friends are invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers in Jim's honor, donations will be used to support Adam in his future and education to come. Donations can be made here (https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-jim-o039rourke-scholarship-for-adam)

Funeral Services

Visitation

September 22, 2019

2:00 PM to 5:00 PM

September 22, 2019

7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Greenwich Village Funeral Home

199 Bleecker Street

New York, NY 10012

Get Directions

Funeral Mass

September 23, 2019

10:30 AM

The Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral

Mott Street (between Prince & Houston Streets)

New York, NY 10012

Get Directions

Share a Memory

The Obituaries are currently being upgraded. Please contact us to report any issues.

Greenwich Village Funeral Home is a Member of:

Metropolitan Funeral Directors Association LogoNational Funeral Directors Association LogoGreen Burial Council LogoGreenwich Village Chamber of Commerce LogoPrePlan LogoCFF LogoCANA Logo