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Memorial Biography: Jim Bretz (1945–2004)

Jim Bretz

In 2004, NHGMC mourned the loss of one of our original members, James R. “Jim” Bretz, who was instrumental in establishing and building our Chorus and for giving the Chorus good publicity and exposure in New Hampshire in the early years. Jim worked for the State of New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services for 25 years. He began his career as a mental health worker at New Hampshire Hospital. When Laconia State School closed, Jim took the lead in developing therapeutic programs and in supporting community integration for many of these individuals there. ·

Community-service work was a large part of Jim’s life. He worked with AIDS patients for many years and he formed many organizations to improve the quality of life for LGBT people. Included in the groups he founded were the Minotaur’s Brotherhood Club, New Hampshire Political Coalition of Lesbians and Gays, Gay Couples Support Group, Dignity New Hampshire, Young People’s Support Group, Out and Proud Men’s Group, New Hampshire Naturally, and the New Hampshire Awards Dinner.

Jim was a recipient of the Diversity 2000 Leadership Awards in the category for Community Service .

Jim was survived by his parents, brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, and his companion, William H. Hill, of Boston, Massachusetts.

Read more about Jim and everyone in the Chorus on Our History page.

Thank you, Jim, for your devotion to the Chorus in the early years.

You remain our Brother Forever.

MOSTLY I’M SILENT
By Jim Bretz

I love to laugh
And to be around people who are sharing love.

I tend to be idealistic
And feel that the things around me are good.

I enjoy being creative
Singing songs, writing poems, drawing and painting.

I’m a dreamer
With visions of hope and gentleness surrounding me.

I’m a caring person
Who loves those that I have not yet met.

But I’m Gay.
And must use restraint in all these things,

So,
Mostly,
I’m Silent.