James C. Dziobek

James (Jim) C. Dziobek Jr., 66, of Lyndon, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2024, with his family by his side. Born on September 3, 1958, in Springfield, Massachusetts, to the late James and Beverly (Hawley) Dziobek, Jim was a dedicated public servant, a passionate advocate for his community and, above all, a cherished family member, and friend. 

Growing up in Springfield, Jim was always active in his community. He was part of the crew team and spent his summers leading Boy Scout camps at The Chesterfield Scout Reservation. His hard work and leadership were evident from a young age, eventually earning him the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. Jim went on to attend Lyndon State College, where he pursued a degree in outdoor education and instantly fell in love with the Green Mountains of Vermont.

It was during those college years that he truly found his calling in public service, kicking things off as an EMT with Lyndon State Rescue Squad, and later serving as an officer with the St. Johnsbury Police Department. This path shaped the rest of his life in ways he never could have imagined. Jim was the epitome of “community policing”. He was all about creating genuine connections between law enforcement and the communities they served. He truly believed everyone deserved a chance.

Jim fondly reminisced about his “Lamoille County days,” working at the Lamoille County Sheriff's Department, where he met his soulmate, Gyla. Jim's career in public service took off when he became the youngest police chief in Vermont at just 29 years old, stepping into that role in Lyndonville in 1987. Side by side with Gyla serving as dispatcher, the local police department ran out of their home in Lyndon. They were an inseparable team in family and service. Together, they raised three wonderful children, with their shared commitment to public service serving as the foundation of their life together.

In 1994, Jim’s life took a dramatic turn when he was involved in a near-fatal car crash. Thanks to his seatbelt, he survived, but the long recovery process forced him to step away from law enforcement. Despite this setback, his dedication to helping others remained unwavering. During his recovery, Jim and Gyla became Guardian Ad Litems, volunteering to advocate for children in need within the court system. Additionally, Jim worked at Cornerstone Alternative School, where he taught young people essential life skills, continuing his commitment to making a positive impact on their lives.

Once he recovered from the challenges of his injuries, Jim returned to law enforcement, where he ultimately became the police Chief in Hardwick and later retired as Chief in Northfield. His career spanned decades, leaving an everlasting mark on the communities he served. Jim was incredibly proud of the new police officers he trained and mentored, and his legacy of service continues through them. 

Outside of his professional life, Jim had many passions that brought him joy. He loved to travel and was always on the lookout for new adventures and places to explore. Jim cherished long, philosophical conversations, often pondering life’s big questions. He lived with a deep belief in the cosmic interconnectedness of the world, embracing the unexpected twists and turns life threw his way. He believed nothing was random. 

Later in life, Jim discovered a love for photography, capturing the beauty of the world through his lens with a unique eye for detail. He also found a passion for art; woodworking and stained glass a few of his favorites. Jim’s handcrafted walking sticks and stunning stained-glass pieces became treasured gifts- symbols of his creativity and heartfelt love for those he cherished. 

At his core, Jim was all about family. He believed that family, whether connected by blood or by choice, was the center of everything. He lived his life guided by that principle.

Jim leaves behind his devoted wife and partner of over 40 years, Gyla, and their three children: Benjamin Dziobek, Elizabeth (husband Marc Thomas) and James Dziobek III. He took immense pride in being Dziadziu to his only grandchild, Addison Thomas. He is also survived by his three siblings: Joanne Dziobek, Richard Dziobek (Judy), and Nancy Salamon (Rusty) as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who felt like family. They will forever cherish the memories of his love, wisdom, and dedication.

Jim’s legacy of service, love, and adventure will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His unwavering dedication to his community, the deep bond he shared with his family, and his passion for life left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.

Friends may call on the family from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with services officiated by the Reverend Jean MacDonald immediately following, on Saturday, January 25th, 2025, at the Sayles Funeral Home, 525 Summer Street, St. Johnsbury, Vermont.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Caledonia Home Health Care and Hospice, the Lyndonville Fire Department, Lyndon Rescue, and Calex Ambulance Service. They also wish to express their gratitude to Jim's medical teams at Danville Health Center, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, and Northeastern VT Regional Hospital, including the NVRH infusion team.

For those who wish, in lieu of flowers, Jim's family kindly requests donations to the Michael Zemanek Memorial Foundation Inc. at www.mzmf.org, or to The Chittenden County Victims of Crime Fund at the Chittenden County State’s Attorney’s Office, 32 Cherry Street, Suite 305, Burlington, VT.

Additionally, in honor of Jim, please consider giving the gift of blood, if you are able.