Support for Big Jim (Sap) Saponaro

God came and opened his arms and brought his son James home on Friday 12-15-23 at 2:50 am, where he was surrounded by family and friends. James 57 was born and raised in Utica, NY where he was head of security of Utica University and later settled in Atlantic City, NJ where he pursued the Automotive Industry. James was predeceased by James and Alice Saponaro. He is survived by his true love and fiancé Karen Friedman, Daughter Chante Saponaro, Three grandchildren A’mariano, Carina and Bella. Who he never stop talking about and loved dearly! Sister Joanne and Frank McBride of Clemmons, NC. Brother John and Liz Saponaro of Zebulon, NC. Brother Daniel Saponaro and Fiancé Beth Lusk of Utica, Ny. Many Nieces and Nephews Terri Blasi of Point Pleasant, NJ. Drs. Kristin and Jerry Rebo of Siloam, NC. Danielle and John Mabe of Eagle Rock, NC. Ashley and Kevin Barton of Yorkville, Ny and Daniel Saponaro of Whiting, NJ who was like a son to James. Marc and Caitlin Perry of Sauquoit, NY. Great nieces and nephews Anthony, Mia, Noah, Emily, Alivia, Alexander, and Ryann. James had many close friends who he loved dearly Jackie DeGristina Camello, Star Saponaro, Tim Hajec and Howard Del Rosario. He left behind Three special Fur Babies that he loved so much Moosie-Lucy, Snaggle-waggle, and Arielle Grace. James loved to sit on the Boardwalk and people watch and listen to the ocean, and enjoyed the casino life with all the action. In lieu of flowers, there is a GoFundMe account https://gofund.me/27850067 to help the family with this unexpected costs with James passing. A Celebration of life will be held in North Utica on James birthday on 1-16-24 and will be located at North End Bar and Tap from 4pm-close. Please come and cherish all your memories and say goodbye as James was not scared and passed peacefully he wanted to go out with a party! God bless ❤️ 

**update 12/15/23**

Thank you for taking your time and your support In this rough time, unfortunately Jim did succumb to his injuries in the early morning hours of December 15 as Jim is a very young man our family was not prepared for funeral and burial expenses. We are very thankful for the last moments we were able to spend with him Jim was an organ donor and we have Faith he is at peace and his organs helped someone in need! any support and prayers for my family is greatly appreciated. Thank you and God bless, cherish your loved ones as tomorrow is not promised. We will be having a celebration of life back in Utica in the near future. Details will be updated as soon as possible!

Rest in paradise Uncle Jim ❤️ 

Our family is the last family to ask for help as we are the most giving family in the world but unfortunately recent events have resulted in our outreach for help. James Saponaro is a wonderful father, uncle, brother, fiancé, friend, and grandfather that would give his shirt off his back to anyone! Unfortunately he has suffered health complications restricting him from work for the past year. His fiancé and family have worked tiredlessly to manage the expenses! Jim unfortunately had a fall on 12/9/23 which has resulted in him being paralyzed from the neck down which is permanent! Medical expenses are piling up and with his release he will require 24/7 care. Any donation to help relieve the financial restraint and to ensure Jim receives the quality of care he deserves will be greatly appreciated! Thank you and god bless!