James W. MacFarlane

Holden - James W. "Jim" MacFarlane, 85, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2026, following a brief illness.

Born on March 13, 1941, Jim lived a life defined by innovation, service, family, and patriotism. He graduated from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) with a degree in electrical engineering and proudly served as a Lieutenant in the United States Army.

After completing his military service, Jim joined ITEK Corporation as an engineer, where he contributed to numerous government and aerospace projects. Among his many accomplishments, he worked on specialized camera systems for the SR-71 Blackbird reconnaissance aircraft. He was especially proud of his role in the development of camera systems installed aboard NASA's Viking II lander, which successfully touched down on Mars in September 1976 and returned invaluable images and scientific data from the Martian surface.

Following his years at ITEK, Jim co-founded AOI Industries (Automated Optical Inspection), where he helped pioneer technology that transformed the electronics manufacturing industry. He developed one of the original patented systems and machines that used cameras to detect flaws in printed circuit boards, helping establish a technology that remains widely used today.

While Jim's professional achievements were remarkable, his greatest pride was always his family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 55 years, Janice (Hotz) MacFarlane. He is survived by his children, Robin (MacFarlane) Templeman and her husband Jerry, Keith MacFarlane and his wife Karen, and Julie (MacFarlane) Deschenes and her husband Will as well as his cherished grandchildren, Claire, Maxwell, Emma, and Noah; and his sister, Susan (MacFarlane) Berger.

Jim will be remembered as a kind and loving father and grandfather, an accomplished engineer, an avid football fan, and a proud patriot. His curiosity, intelligence, generosity, and quiet strength touched all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of innovation, service, and devotion to family that will endure for generations.