In Memoriam: James Alfred Masiello, 1940-2023
Philanthropist and Public Servant Passes At The age of 83
Jim Masiello passed away December 22, 2023 from a brief illness at the age of 83.
He established the Masiello Agency in Keene NH in 1965 that became the current Masiello Group which at the time included property and causality insurance, real estate and travel services. The Masiello Agency was the progenerate business entity of many successful companies that are still thriving to this day. Later in his career he started the insurance entities SAN Group in 1983, and then founded Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance (SIAA) in 1995 – reflecting a local, regional, national insurance products delivery system that would lead to unparalleled success in the insurance industry.
He leaves behind a legacy of entrepreneurship and particularly an indelible mark on the insurance industry and the independent insurance agency delivery channel. As the founder of SIAA, the leading national alliance of independent insurance agencies, Jim created a business model that has enhanced the success and bettered the lives of thousands of independent insurance agents and their clients.
Jim was the recipient of numerous recognitions including Person of The Year in Keene, NH in 1982 and the Rough Notes Magazine’s Dr. Henry C. Martin Award of Industry Achievement in 2016 for his commitment to expanding the independent agency system. He also served on a number public and private boards along with insurance company advisory councils.
Jim maintained a lifelong commitment to community involvement and philanthropy mostly centered around improving the community infrastructure of Keene NH his hometown and providing vast educational opportunities for deserving students and their families.
Jim was also a public servant, having served 4 years on the Keene NH planning board and city council along with two terms as the youngest mayor of Keene, NH from 1972 – 1975. As mayor he was instrumental in the development of the cities master plan. He made a bid for the United States Senate in 1978 and served as New Hampshire’s Chairman of the Department of Education. He was an influential figure in the Republican party of New Hampshire as NH Co-Campaign Chair for President Fords election run in 1976 and was proud of his association with President George H. W. Bush leading up to his term as 41st President of the United States.
One of his favorite idioms, “In every challenge lies an opportunity,” served him well throughout his lifetime and is reflected in the successful way he approached all aspects of his life which ultimately lead to a legacy of sustained achievement.
Jim leaves behind his wife Kathy, three children Chris, Lisa and Matt as well as 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.
