Boston, MA – The Walsh Brothers’ project team at the Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital construction site in the former Charlestown Navy Yard is paying tribute to the recent passing of James H. Walsh III, Chairman of the Broad and the third generation of ownership at the firm. Mr. Walsh passed away on March 9th after a long and courageous battle with cancer. With the tower cranes busy erecting steel for the 250,000 SF hospital and underground parking garage the opportunity to pay tribute to Jim Walsh seemed appropriate. Commemorative flags have been flying on the cranes in fondness of J III or Jim the 3rd as he was known in the industry, after his father and grandfather before him. Jim was also known as the industry’s gentleman builder. Jim’s leadership spanned the last 25 years up until his son, Richard C. Walsh, transitioned into the role of President and CEO in 2008.
The project site, a former Navy Yard, is the perfect location for such a tribute given that Jim Walsh was known for his patriotism, love of his country and served his country in the Korean War. Over the last 25 years, Jim had the pleasure of leading one New England’s finest and most trusted construction companies, Walsh Brothers, Incorporated. The firm, under Jim’s leadership has served many of the region’s most prestigious institutions as well as having restored historic landmarks such as: Custom House Tower, Faneuil Hall and Boston Symphony Hall. During his 60 years with Walsh Brothers, Mr. Walsh received numerous revered industry awards, including coveted Build America Awards, and honors from the Academy of Arts and Sciences. He was the first person to be inducted into the Associated General Contractors of America Hall of Fame.
In addition to serving the community of Walsh Brothers Jim Walsh gave back to the community at large in countless ways. A proud graduate of the College of the Holy Cross and with an additional degree in engineering from Northeastern University, Jim served as a trustee of the Boston Children’s Hospital for 25-years, as a Director of the Associated General Contractors, Director of MASCO, and a member of the President’s Council at Holy Cross. James was also a member of the Knights of Sepulchre, Cohasset Golf Club, John’s Island Club and Longwood Cricket Club. Mr. Walsh is survived by his wife of 56 years, Annellen; two sons, James IV of Scituate and Richard of Hingham; a daughter, Ellenann Haughey of Wellesley; and six grandchildren.
Richard C. Walsh, will continue the legacy of his father as the proud 4th generation of the Walsh family to lead the Company into its 110th year of continuous operation. Walsh Brothers, Incorporated proudly salutes the life and gifts of Jim Walsh.