Earl "Jim" Artle, age 63, of Highlands died Thursday, September 18, 2014 at home in Highlands. Jim was born in West Union, WV and grew up in Warren, OH he later lived in Hoboken and then settled in Highlands. Jim was a Paramedic for 43 years beginning in Warren and continuing in Hoboken and Highlands. He was a lifetime member of the Hoboken Volunteer Ambulance Corp. During this time of literally saving lives, he also wanted to share more laughter. As a member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians, and the Magic Castle Membership in Hollywood, CA where he was also a performer, Jim intrigued thousands with his close up hand workfor over 30 years. He so loved to entertain and fascinate that his sister Debbie recently published his work in "A Fifth of Card Tricks -with coin trick chasers". He was hired to entertain the street crowds surrounding Barnes & Noble in NYC for the new Releases of the Harry Potter Series; Jim performed his magic to delighted young Muggles. In 1984, Jim found his way to Macy's where, as Senior Balloon Technician, he was the proud caretaker of a great American Tradition- The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. He worked the Parade for 33 years and started each by announcing his signature line through his bullhorn, "Ladies and Gentlemen, we have a Balloon". He is one of the original "Balloonatics" to be taught by Goodyear Engineers. He retired in 2013. Jim truly lived life with love, dedication, passion, joy, and constant laughter; always sharing his knowledge with everyone. Jim's love of life will carry on with those he mentored and befriended.He is the son of the late Joseph James and the late Dorotha Lee (Robison) Artle. Jim leaves behind his great love, Sandy Rafferty; daughters, Casey Artle-Christiernsson (Michael) and Kaitlin Faler; brothers, Sam and Joe Artle; sisters, Lana Artle, Debbie Wilson (Michael) and Bev Reyes (Joe); grandchildren, Sarah and Caleb; and nieces and nephews, and . The Visitations will be held on Saturday, Sept. 20 from 4-7 PM at the John P. Condon Funeral Home in Leonardo with the Funeral Services following at 7 also at the Funeral Home. Cremation Services will be Private. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Joan Dancy and PALS, P.O. Box 8157, Red Bank NJ 07701. The organization is a local support group helping individuals with ALS and tirelessly assisted Jim throughout his illness; or please support your local Volunteer Ambulance Corp. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/app/obi......yWR.dpuf