James “Jim” Conrad Bremer, 65, of Executive Drive in South Burlington, died on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at the University of Vermont Medical Center, following a short illness.
Jim was born on March 9, 1960, at Fort Benning, Ga., the son of Conrad “Dutch” and Pat Petrich. He spent his younger years in the Bronx but later moved to Vermont with his family. He graduated from Essex Junction Educational Center in 1978.
Jim’s love for cars led him to a career in the automotive service industry, becoming a service manager and later managing rental equipment deliveries. Most recently, he worked as a limousine driver, using his easygoing personality to connect with others.
Jim found happiness in every aspect of life. Football and the Giants were his first loves. He enjoyed attending Rangers games with the Petrich family. Jim was a devoted NASCAR fan, always cheering for his favorites. His love for sports cars and motorcycles became more than a hobby when recent summers were filled with car shows. The centerpiece: his prized 2013 60th Anniversary Edition Corvette.
When he wasn’t discussing cars or racing, Jim enjoyed fishing, finding peace by the water. As an amateur photographer, he created images that captured his wonder and curiosity about the world. Jim’s passion for rock and roll and blues music was evident in every part of his life. He loved attending live shows and traveling to see his favorite artists.
Jim was a shining light in the lives of all who knew him. He greeted everyone he met with a huge smile and an even bigger hug. He held a deep love for his family, friends and community. Always the first to lend a hand, Jim dedicated himself to helping others. He will forever be remembered for his generosity and genuine care for those around him.
He is survived by his sisters, Jen (Scott) Armstrong and Susan (Scott) Cohn; his cherished niece, Aislynn; and his nephews, Corey, Declan and Kelley. He is also survived by many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins and devoted friends who were his chosen family, including his closest friend, Steve Baker, whom he lived with for years; Steve’s children, Emily (Bobby) Myers, Jeret (Katelyn) Bushey and Katie (Justin) Thigpen; and their mother, Stacie Baker.
Jim was predeceased by his parents, Pat and Dutch Bremer; aunts Marie Petrich, Carol Bremer, Nancy Bremer and Jeri Loughlin; uncles George Petrich, Carl Bremer and Craig Bremer; cousin Dana Bremer; several cherished friends, including Tom Cook, Jim Rice and Craig Eschelback; and beloved dogs Neeko, Midnight and Budie.
Friends and family may call on Thursday, January 29, 2026, 5 to 7 p.m., at Ready Funeral Home South Chapel, 261 Shelburne Rd., Burlington, VT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, January 30, 2026, 11 a.m., at Holy Family Catholic Church, 30 Lincoln St., Essex Junction, VT.
Arrangements are in the care of Ready Funeral & Cremation Services. To share online condolences, please visit readyfuneral.com.
This article appears in January 28 • 2026.