James A. Regan

OSWEGO – James A. Regan, 90, of Oswego, passed away on March 8, 2025, with his beloved wife by his side.

Born in Oswego, he was the son of the late Charles J. and Nora (Donovan) Regan Sr.

James graduated from Oswego High School, served in the US Army, and was honorably discharged in 1962.  He began his career as a Dairy Farmer, then worked as a painter for SUNY Oswego. He was most well known for his accomplishments as an innovative entrepreneur.  James was the owner/manager of Regan’s Silver Lake.  Through the years he catered to and hosted many successful events including the annual Springfest and pig roasts for the College, Miller’s Family Days, hot air balloon rides, motorboat and snowmobile races, clambakes and so much more.  After many years of success and fun, he turned his property into the beautiful housing development that now exists on Regan Lake. James was an active member of the Republic Party, a special deputy for the Oswego Sheriff’s Department, and the Highway Superintendent for the Town of Oswego. He was a proud lifelong resident of Oswego and an invested and involved community member.

James is survived by his loving wife Carol (Kray) Regan, his daughter Mary Theresa (Mick) Black, and his sons James (Tracy) Regan Jr., Kevin (Mae) Regan, and Shawn (Patricia) Regan.  He also leaves behind his brother Dennis F. ( Patricia) Regan and sisters Anne Familo and Kathleen (Henry) Kolek, as well as grandchildren Michael (Elisa) Black, Paula (Ethan) Regan, Shawn (Lauren) Regan II, Kristin (Stephen) Regan, and Johnathan (Jennifer) Regan, and great-grandchildren Azaiah Shepard, Brandon Black, Colt Black, and Melanie Regan.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his brothers Charles J. Regan Jr., and John P. Regan, his sisters Mary Magnon, Noreen Culeton, and Joan Layton, and his grandson James Regan III.

Family and friends are invited to call on March 20, 2025, from 3-6 pm at Nelson Funeral Home.  A Catholic Funeral Mass will be held at 10 am on March 21, 2025, at St. Mary of the Assumption Parish and Shrine.  Burial will follow in St. Peter Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the caring guidance of Nelson Funeral Home.