Bangor, Maine - James Hetley, 78, passed away on October 8, 2025, as a result of a bike crash.

Born in Illinois, Jim moved to Bangor 50 years ago, after discharge from the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Having a degree in architecture from the University of Michigan, he worked in offices in Bangor, Holden and Ellsworth before opening his own architectural office. He wrote several urban fantasy novels, was a member of the Pine State Amateur Radio Club, and was the home handyman. Always athletic and interested in sports, he had been a karate instructor, but preferred the outdoors, taking almost daily walks and greeting his many cat friends. He had bicycled extensively each summer, often sharing what he noticed on rides, for 25 years.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Merle; and sons, Michael and Richard.