Remembering Jim Case

In lieu of flowers, you can help the Case Family by making a personal gift to the Jim Case Memorial Family Fund either electronically via Venmo Account: @JimCase-MemorialFamilyFund or by mail to Tompkins Trust Co., Jim Case Memorial Family Fund, c/o Thomas Cannon, PO Box 460, Ithaca, NY 14851. Checks may be made payable to Jim Case Memorial Family Fund.

Jimmy Case became an iconic member of our athletics program during his long, exceptional service to countless student athletes over his distinguished tenure. His was beloved by his peers in sports medicine, his dear friends within our department as well as colleagues and friends throughout the Cornell and Ithaca communities. Perhaps the athletes he mentored, befriended and imparted life lessons will ache the most understanding the profound influence he made on their life. The loss of Jimmy Case is devastating to his family and to all of us who loved him.

Jimmy, we are here for your family now that you have passed away. You can count on us to ease their difficult transition to life without your physical presence. I know you will be with your family and all of us in spirit

Jim Case made long days short and hard days just a bit easier. It's little wonder why he was someone alums made a beeline to find when they returned to campus - everyone knew him and just as many loved him. I'll miss so much about what he brought to Cornell and our student-athletes. I'll miss my friend.

Unless your an athlete, you can not understand the relationship that develops between you and your trainer. For 32 years, nobody did it better than Jim. I will miss my friend.

A true gentleman. Always enjoyed my trips back to Ithaca to visit the Athletic Training staff. Bernie hit a home run when he hired Jim. Great with the athletes, coaches , parents and co-workers.

Jim was a great friend not only to me but to all the equipment managers. I loved my sideline conversations with him and he always knew how to make people smile.

Jim was a friend to everyone and loved all the athletes. I loved my 4 years working with Jim and our conversations about football and lacrosse. He will be missed more then words can describe.

Prayers to his family and Cornell family.

We are so sorry for your loss. We were proud to call Jim our friend! We are sending prayers to you and the kids during this difficult time.

Jim was a straight up nice person. I enjoyed working with him while at Cornell. He was very level headed and practical- always had the best interest of Cornell Athletes at heart and a readiness and willingness to get things done efficiently and thoughtfully. He will be dearly missed.

Jim and I started worked for Athletics around the same time and hit it off immediately as friends. He always had a smile on his face and a remark about my Cowboys,Gonna miss our friendly jabs back and forth about his Lions and my Cowboys. He always made my day when we saw each other at work. Just an awesome guy, gonna miss you Jim

As an athlete, I spent more time in the training than anywhere else in my time at Cornell. Through multiple surgeries and too much rehab, Jim was always there to help and push me through my struggle to get back on the field. More often than not, it was probably a sarcastic comment with a a little smile on the back end, but it was just enough to motivate you to push through the pain. Thank you Jim for everything that you did not only for myself, but for every athlete that walked through the training room door. You will be deeply missed.

I met Jim on my first day of joining the Big Red football staff back in January of 1990. We have remained friends for 30 years, he always had a smile and a kind word. Jim was a true asset to Cornell athletics and a friend to all who knew him. He would even take the time to help the local high school athletes with their bumps, bruises and injuries, in particular, Garrett and Chase Venuto, my sons. Chase, Garrett and I are still shedding tears for Ladeen and the family. We love you Jim!

I enjoyed every interaction I had working with Jim. He had a way of making your day just a little bit brighter and problems a little less stressful. I will miss you Jim.

One of the all time good guys. Always passionate and compassionate. Love ya my friend.

As one of the many students that had worked with Jim, it was an honor and a privilege to have known him. I hope we can all find comfort in the many moments of laughter, happiness, sarcasm, and lessons he taught us. My sincerest condolences to the family. You all and the Cornell community will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Although I have only known Jim for 4 years, I feel like he was like family. I drove for football and Lacrosse. When I saw him around he always made a point to say hi, ask how I was doing and make a comment about my Steelers. He was an amazing, beautiful soul and will more than greatly missed. My condolences to his family and his Cornell family.

Very sad, Jim always had a smile. Just saw him at the Cu- PSU game, we talked to him and Ladeen. He was a great friend to Jeff. Our best to the family. RIP Jimmy

Not a Cornell alum or athlete. Quite simply Jim was a strong warm hug and important piece of support after my brother George passed away. I can’t imagine what it could have been like for Jim as George’s trainer, as someone who was there that day and I have the most respect for what he must have had to carry in his heart because of it. In the years after, I saw Jim many times when there were memorial events etc. he was always there, he was always a support, he was positive and strong. Jim thank you for what you did for my family. I give thanks for the person you were to George and for the warm hug you were to me. Ladeen, I see you for who you were to George starting the reading program and I want to say how important your family was to mine. Ladeen, Devin, Carson and Colin, I give thanks for Jim and I send you so much love and respect. Praying for you.

There was never a dull moment with Jim. Every interaction we had was always filled with jokes or some story about his years at Cornell. Such a respected professional and man in the athletics world. He will be missed dearly by all.

Jim fortunate to spend 9 years with you in Ithaca. The Georgalas Family sends our thoughts and prayers to Ladeen, Devin, Carson, Colin and the entire Case Family.

I had the absolute pleasure to work with Jim as a student athletic trainer. Even though it was just a few months together, Jim had such a large impact on me, as he has had on many others. There was never a day that I didn’t look forward to going to Cornell to see what sarcastic, hilarious comment he would have for me. Jim believed in me as a young AT student and I will forever be thankful for that. Jim’s family (including the dogs), Cornell staff and community, will be in my thoughts and prayers.

I had the privilege of working with Jim not only as a student-athlete but also in my first job after college. While he wasn't my athletic trainer, he was always so friendly and supportive every time any athlete entered the training room. I spent quite a bit of time in the training room and Jim always made me feel so welcomed and made me laugh. I saw firsthand his care for all student-athletes during my time working with Jim on the Student-Athlete Mental Health committee. He cared about every identity of the athletes on this campus, not just the athletics piece. He cared about every athlete and colleague as a person first and foremost. That is one of the greatest gifts you can give an athlete in college. Thank you, Jim. You are deeply missed by more people than you can imagine.

Jimmy, your wit and dry sense of humor were some of my fondest memories from my time at CU. I'll forever appreciate the visits down to the training room for stories, jokes and great times. You somehow always found a way to get a smile or a laugh out of me even during the toughest of days. Cornell Football lost one of it's best. It goes without saying that you will be missed, but know you had such a huge impact on so many, that you will always be remembered and never forgotten.

The entire John family are all just devastated about this. Jim was a stellar human being and we all loved him! We send our deepest condolences to Ladeen, Devin, Carson and Collin. We love all of you.

Jim replaced me when I left the Athletic Training staff in the late 1980's. The minute I met him, I knew Bernie had made a great choice. His smile and his personality was a great addition to Cornell's athletic staff. I always enjoyed stopping in to the Training Room on my visits to campus and if Jim was there we always had a great conversation about the goings on in Athletics. Our Christmas luncheons were particularly fun because I felt like I was back with the "boys" and Jim was just one of my old crowd. A great guy who will be missed.

My thoughts and prayers go out to Ladeen and rest of his family.

Jim worked all the Cornell lacrosse camps and Lake Placid. Treated my son, Uno ‘21, many times always with upbeat, postive engergy. A real healer with great smile. role RIP

It’s with great sadness that I write this, I’ve known Jim from the years our sons played against each other ( Corning / Ithaca )and visiting each year in Lake Placid. He always had a kind word and a smile to share when we connected and talked about each other’s family! He will be sorely missed, Rest In Peace my friend!

For over twenty years, along with Coach Moran, Jim was the most identifiable and reassuring constant for Cornell Lacrosse. Most recently, my wife and I attended the Cornell-Penn State game in Charlotte. Just before the starting players ran on to the field, my wife nudged me and said, look - Coach Tambroni just walked over to the Cornell sideline and gave Jim Case a hug. I can't think of a Cornell game I've attended when I didn't see a former Cornell player or a member of the opposing team's coaching staff embrace Jim. I think that says a lot about the man.
A life too short, but well done.

Sharing warm thoughts and a big smile to the entire Case Family and to all of his friends. Jimmy managed to Make an indelible mark on so many of us over his decades of service to Cornell’s athletes and his impact will never be forgotten. I will always cherish our relationship and appreciate the way you represented all of us on those sidelines. -Vino

To the Case family - the Cornell lacrosse community is deeply saddened by the news and we are thinking of you during this difficult time. Jim was a steadfast member of our extended family who always cheered me up. No matter what else was going on at the time - bad day, tough workout, bad practice, or anything else, Jim always brought a smile to my face. I always enjoyed spending time with Jim and horsing around with the boys (now young men!) on the periphery of any Cornell lacrosse event. Jim provided a great example for the young men associated with Cornell Lacrosse. People who aren’t familiar with the program don’t understand that it isn’t just about throwing a ball in a net, it’s more about raising young men of character and integrity. Jim was an integral part of this philosophy and he will be dearly missed. Thinking of you and the family and many happy memories of time spent with Jim.

Best,
David Bush 2006

To Jim's family , my heartfelt sympathy on the loss of Jim. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I was a lacrosse parent - Scott graduated 2 years ago.

Jim was great to all the parents , always willing to talk or help. There was peace of mind knowing your kid was in such good hands ....

As an athlete with chronic injury issues, I got to know Jim early and often. Jim was always eager to give me support with the perfect blend of honesty, encouragement, professionalism, and a sense of humor. I've worked with other trainers, and most were part of the sports medicine staff. Jim was truly a part of the team, as important and invested in the team as any player or coach. Years later, Jim still provided me the same support and friendship when I would see him (and yes, get injured) at tournaments around the country. The Cornell family lost a great one this past week. Thanks for everything Jim. You will be missed.

Jim-

Thanks for the care, laughs, and friendship. You were always one of the "must sees" whenever I returned to campus.

Case Family-

I'm so sorry for your loss. Please know that Jim was loved and we are all grateful for the time we had with him.

As I peck out these words, part of me is still unable to fully comprehend the fact the Jimmy is no longer with us. I have been a friend of Jimmy’s since the late 1980’s, and we have shared countless memorable times over the decades. I don’t think I have ever met anyone who was as universally respected by so many. As I scrawled back through the text messages he and I exchanged over the years, I see the subject matter is dominated by humor ( frequently dominated by my subtle digs about his home-state Detroit Lions) and his compassion. In a matter of pure co-incidence, (or is it?) I have just noticed that am right now wearing a Cornell Sports Medicine shirt that Jimmy gave me. That is the Jimmy Case I remember. If you were his friend, he would give you the shirt off his back. His was a life that should serve as a model to the rest of us, as far treating one another with dignity and respect. He left us far too soon.

So sorry to hear this news. Jim took great care of me and always had a positive attitude that made me feel better even when I really didn't. He will be missed.

Jim was always a friendly face in the training room. Being a fresh faced kid in Ithaca far from home it was nice to have someone from Michigan to talk to. He worked tirelessly to keep myself and my teammates on the field.

One of my favorite memories of Jim was that we always joked that when we played a game on TV and someone was injured on the field him and Bernie would "race" to the injured player to see who could attend to him first to get some TV time for themselves.

My heart goes out to his family in this difficult time. Know that Jim was a big part of a lot of people's life and his legacy will live on for a long time.

Dear Case Family,

Jim's sense of humor and genuine concern for all players well-being made him a critical part of our team, and someone you knew always had your back. He was a comfort just knowing he was out there with us everyday. He definitely made my time on the team more memorable and enjoyable. I don't even remember all the coaches I had, but I remember Jim vividly. He had that kind of impact on people and the world. Thanks for sharing him with us. He has run the race valiantly and will be waiting for us all up above to reunite someday.

Coach Case,

You are missed and well loved by all Big Red Athletes!! On Behalf of all Cornell Athletes, I would like to thank you for all of your hard work, care, dedication, and love you bestowed upon us. I know without your help many of us never would have stepped back on the field to compete after sustaining injuries. God Speed Coach Case and we will see you on the other side!!

Jim's sense of humor always was a bright spot in everyone's day. Especially during trying times like rehabbing injuries or getting over a tough loss, he was able an lighten an interaction and bring a smile to our faces. Many of us on the football team viewed him as a member of the team and one of the guys. His expertise and support of all the programs is a huge loss for Cornell Athletics.

Jim was our 150's trainer my last two seasons at Cornell 88 & 89 . I ended up spending more time than I would have liked to with him but I am so glad that I did. He was kind, caring and incredibly funny. He was a master of sarcasm with a quick wit and since we were only a few years apart we had much in common. He was more than just a trainer, he was a true friend. He and his family will be in my family's prayers. Rest in peace my friend.

Jim Case was one of my Cornell rocks. He was one who I could always count on being there when I returned to campus. Thirty years later he was the same guy I first met at a Richie Moran Quick Stick Lacrosse Camp, a most genuine and kind human being. The void of sports this spring will pass, the void left by Jim's passing will not. I miss him dearly.

Very sorry to hear of the passing of Jim. This is a true loss for the Cornell athletic program, Case family, and anyone that met Jim.
As a punter, I had limited interaction with Jim, except on the sidelines. He was always there to give the special teamsters a laugh.
You will be missed, Jim

As a former footballer, and an often injured one, I spent a decent amount of time with Pete. To Pete, it never mattered if you were the star running back or just trying to stay on the punt squad, he was incredibly attentive and kind. He epitomized the way the entire training team approached Cornell Athletes. In the years since I graduated, I could always count on seeing Jim's familiar face walking the sidelines and have a brief "How have you been" discussion.

He was a good friend and I will miss him.

As many of us know, Jim Case was the calming voice on the sideline when things would get a little hectic. Always with ready smile or witty barb, he was a true friend and valued colleague. My thoughts go out to Ladeen and the kids as well as the entire Big Red family.

A truly dedicated man and mentor. Condolences to family. RIP

Jim was an absolute beauty of a man. He will be remembered as a bright spot during my journeys at Cornell. Usually, when you have to see a trainer you are injured and down about the whole thing. Jim had an unbelievable gift of comforting athletes usually with a good joke or perfectly timed comment. I know a lot of my teammates, like me, would make time to get to the training facility and stop in to get a few laughs and lessons from Jim. During tough days on the field Jim would stop by players usually with a quippy comment to get the moods of guys up. A lot of inside jokes paired with real open and honest conversations were as healing for players and the great medical expertise he provided. Jim was an advocate for all of his players and formed bonds with more than we can fathom. He is a great man that helped kids grow to men through his uniquely uplifting personality. Jim will be missed by all who had the privilege to be around him. To his family, your husband and your father is revered by numerous players and his memory will be uplifting to all. You will be in my prayers. I look forward to our next Cornell gathering when we can share some more stories about Jim, that will undoubtedly end in a few tears and many laughs. Miss you Jim but thank you for your lessons and laughs!

Mrs. Case, Devin, Carson, and Collin,

Having lost my own hero of a dad four years ago, I know that my words will not fill the hole left by your husband’s/dad’s passing. And yet, so many others have written, and I am writing, to remind you of how special he was and how lucky we all are to have known and loved him.

I often tell people that Cornell is such a special place because of the extraordinary people it draws. Extraordinary because of their talents, but, even better, extraordinary because of their character and commitment to serving others. Jim is most definitely one of the people I think of when I describe Cornell that way.

All of us who had the honor of wearing a Cornell uniform benefitted from a world-class athletic training staff led by Bernie and Jim. But that’s not why I’ve hung out after every game I’ve come to as an alum to see Jim and ask about you guys and give him updates on my growing family. And that’s not why I dropped by the training room as a student-athlete when I was perfectly healthy. I did those things because Jim and Bernie became my friends and role models. In them, I saw examples of the kind of man I hoped one day to become: a dedicated and successful professional, a devoted husband, and a loving dad. Especially for someone like myself who, as a student, was so young and so far from home, the impact of their example on my development as a man was tremendous.

I know you miss him. You always will. And so will we all.

Sending love and prayers,

Jim was a good man with a gentle spirit. My deepest sympathies to his family.

Jim Case was a great person in every way !! His passing is a tragedy and he will be missed so much . Jim was respected and loved by all the many football and lacrosse players, and coaches, that he served . Our love and support goes out to Ladeen during this sad time . We loved Jim !!

I was heart broken to hear of Jim's sudden passing. Whenever we returned to Ithaca for a game or a weekend, seeing and talking to Jim was always one of the very best moments of the trip. Deepest condolences to his family and the Big Red athletic community.
He was a very special guy.

I know most former Cornell student-athletes will know what I'm talking about when I say that, when you come back to campus you seek out those individuals that take you back to those best days of your life when you were a Cornell student-athlete, and make you feel that "all is right with the world". Jim was one of those individuals. His infectious smile and wry sense of humor made everyone else smile and laugh along with him. He came to campus the summer before the '88 Championship football season, which was a special year for many sports at Cornell. He saw all the highs and lows throughout his 32 years there, but what never wavered (which is so uncommon in this day and age) was his loyalty to Bernie, to Cornell and to us the student-athletes he took care of, bandaged up, and got us back on the field. We will be forever grateful for that loyalty, but most of all for his friendship and that knowledge that we knew he loved all of us. We love you back, Jim. We will miss you!

Getting to know Jim and Ladeen as their son Carson went through school sports at IHS with our son Chris, it was always such a pleasure to cross paths. Friendly, outgoing and helpful, they were so kind, loving and family-oriented. As Chris joined club lax and Cornell, and again for a season of Sprint, our paths continued to cross. We are so very sad to hear about his passing, and truly feel for the Case family and all Jim's current and former Cornell family. Our deepest condolences and prayers for all. Kindest regards,

Jim displayed a rare combination of humor and professionalism. His knowledge, skill and experience kept me and mine safe and ready to compete. But it was his humor and knack for calling me on crap when I tried to play when I shouldn’t or when I wad feeling sorry for myself that I remember most. I’ll cherish our friendship in my time at Cornell and I offer my deepest condolences to the case family.

It was such a shock to learn of Jim's passing.It is such a loss for the Cornell family.
I know he contributed a great deal to the lacrosse program, not just in athletic attainment but in the development of the players lives during their time at Cornell and throughout the rest of their lives. It's especially poignant that he passed so close to the anniversary of George Boiardi's passing. I will always remember the jersey cases he made every year for the graduating seniors. Such a thoughtful gesture! He will be missed!

Prayers and love to the family.

Thank you for everything Jimmy. You were an incredible friend, coach, trainer - and core to Cornell lacrosse. We’ll miss you dearly. Rest In Peace.

As my son- in -law , Jim’s professional life was equally as wonderful with family and friends. He will always be a loving memory.

Jim was the consummate professional, I watched for years how he took care of and bonded with countless Cornell athletes. At first I had to earn Jim‘s trust and it was Toughlove as they say, but eventually he became a good friend, confidant someone I will miss dearly. RIP Jimmy you are a true Hall of Famer Both at Cornell but more importantly in life.

Amazing to see all the lives and people he touched. I spent a lot of time in the training room and Jim’s spirit and humor would always have everyone around him laughing. It was almost a rite of passage to work your way up to getting treated by Jim. He always kept things interesting and had an uncanny knack for getting on TV for lax and football games, which of course was never "intentional". You will be missed Jim. Prayers and condolences to the family.

A wonderful Athletic Trainer, friend and man. Ladeen enhanced his life and the family a beautiful result....

We send our condolences and our love.

The world lost a very good man before his time. He lived and breathed Cornell athletics and brought a smile and spirit to our football team that will never be forgotten. I know he brought the same level of passion and love to his family life. My thoughts are with the entire Case family during this difficult time.

We are so incredibly sorry for your loss. I was one Jim’s early trainees recovering from ACL surgery along with a few other ‘92 grads. Always passionate , positive and supportive. He was just starting to look after our freshman as a friend on campus. He will be terribly missed.

Dear Carson and Collin,

I miss seeing you both running around the lacrosse locker room and facilities. I am thinking of both of you during this time and have your family in my thoughts and prayers.

Jim was never afraid to call a team member out in the training room or on the sideline if he thought they could be tougher or be better. Quite often, these were humorous jabs which would lighten the mood during challenging times or on a long bus ride. He had high expectations of us and expected accountability. At the same time, we always knew he cared for us, even if you were a freshman who just stepped on campus.

No one will ever replace him, but please know that you have an awesome group of people who are here for you.

Warm Wishes,

Jim always has the pulse of every Cornell Lacrosse team. Especially for those of us who spent a lot of time in the training room, even on Sundays when he’d make time to take extra care of us after games, he put you at ease.

As an alum, he was just a great guy to hang out with and find out a little of the pulse of that year’s squad.

Mrs. Case, Devin, Carson & Collin, I’m so sorry. I’ll miss seeing Jim’s face light up when he told me about your latest news. He was so very proud, with good reason, of each of you.

I was deeply saddened by the news of Jim's passing. My deepest sympathy to the Case family in this time of tremendous loss. He was a terrific athletic trainer, and a wonderful individual. The lacrosse world will miss him as he was one of the best. I will keep Jim and his family in my thoughts and prayers.

I had the great opportunity to work alongside Jim and the Sports Medicine staff for about 3 years. Jim has had a tremendous impact on my life and career. He is greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Case family and the Cornell family.

Despite his being a Detroit Redwings fan (and I a Chicago Blackhawks fan), we were able to bond and find common ground 20+ years ago during our time together as part of the Cornell football family. Jim took care of our bumps and bruises and aches and pains, but also was a great example of humor, humility and class. Jim was a great man and will be sorely missed. Prayers for all his family and friends during this most difficult time.

There really are no words to adequately explain how much I liked Jim, and how shocked and saddened I was to learn the news of his passing. He was a great man - fun, funny, caring - and I really enjoyed any time we were able to spend together (usually during pre-game meals on lacrosse trips). I saw first hand how much he cared for the players, and how much they respected him! He will be greatly missed by all who knew him!!

Jim arrived in 1988--with his help a Cornell football championship!! Not surprising for Jim was a winner. I will miss him and so will Cornell and everyone who had the honor of knowing him.

My heart is so saddened; upon every return to campus I would stop by the training room and always received a smile and joke from Jim. Plus unofficial state of the football program again with a witty joke. My prayers and thoughts go out to his family and the Cornell.

Heartfelt condolences to Jim’s family and the Cornell sports medicine and athletics community. Truly thankful to Jim for his support and dedication on and off the field.
Rest In Peace.

I love what jimmy has done for cornell...never, never be forgotten...love to his family and his legacy...the french family...michael, liz and sara.