James Astrausky

With such sadness, we share that our dear Jim passed away at his home in Guilford on Sunday, July 16th. Born January 23, 1953, in New Haven, CT, Jim is survived by his beloved wife Holly of 38 years and their canine companion Enzo, by his sister Sandol Astrausky (Rory Macleod) and son of the late James V. Astrausky and Sandol Astrausky. And he will be deeply missed by his many nieces, nephews and in-laws.

Jim was a founding partner of the Essex Television Group and creative force behind numerous television documentaries, including the current hit program Chasing Classic Cars. He traveled the world to pursue the compelling stories he wanted to tell, yet was always eager to return home. He was a car enthusiast – a self-proclaimed “gearhead,” an excellent cook, always on the lookout for an eclectic restaurant to try. Jim was warm, funny and a blast to be around.

Jim left this Earth too quickly. He left behind a blaze of his stardust for each one of us to grab a piece of, to get us through…. Jim was a catalyst for change, action, and derring-do. He lived his life large, spoke his truth and was generous and softhearted. He photo bombed Life with glee. His intense spirit will never die.

In lieu of flowers please consider contributing to The Connecticut Hospice Inc. at http://www.hospice.com/donate/ or the Sarcoma Foundation of America in support of liposarcoma research, at https://www.curesarcoma.org/ways-to-give/.