James Distaffen
Greece: Sunday, May 31, 2015. Predeceased by his parents James Jean; brother, Rocco. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Virginia "Dolly" (Borzilleri) Distaffen; "Jimmy's kids", Debbie (Frank) DiFilippo, Gary (Wendy) Distaffen, Steve (Cheryl) Distaffen Laurie (Doug) Kulp, grandchildren, Franca (Matt) Girard, Jeremy (Becky) DiFilippo, Jennifer, Melissa (Mike), Gary Jr (Rachel), Joseph (Emily), Andrew, Jason Distaffen, Ryan (Ashley), Shane (Bri), Kyle Distaffen, Alex, Adam Bryan Kulp; great-grandchildren, Cassandra, Gage, Rosaline, Cecelia, Reilly Lia; sister, Rosalie Padula; brother, Tony (Lynn) Distaffen; many nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins dear friends. Jim's visitation will be Wednesday, June 3 from 3-7 PM at funeral home, 1411 Vintage Lane. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 am on Thursday, June 4 at St. Lawrence Church, 1000 North Greece Road. Burial will be in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the School of the Holy Childhood, 100 Groton Parkway, Rochester NY 14623 in Jim's memory. Jim grew up in the Dutchtown Neighborhood, he was part of a large family. During his childhood, he survived Rheumatic Fe...[more]View Full Online Obituary and Tributes
after his doctor believing that he would not survive that. As a result of this, Jim spent time at the Convalescent Hospital for Children on Beach Ave while recovering from the illness. Jim worked at Michael Sterns, Hickey Freeman as a bus driver at the Gates Chili School District. He also worked as a driver for executives in the Rochester Area. This skill also was utilized to drive family members for doctor appointments, his family appreciated his willingness to help out. He was an avid bowler, enjoyed fishing ice fishing. Jim also played the organ accordians. He learned to play these musical instruments without instruction, Jim played by listening to music and was self taught. He also liked to played the slot machines at the casinos, his presence will be missed at the upcoming family trip. You could also witness Jim watching sports on television, he would discuss the results with his cousin, Gus. The single most important thing to him was spending time with his family - his entire family. Jim will be remembered for his good sense of humor and his enjoyment conversing with people. He would speak his mind, but with his endearing personality. Jim had a large circle of friends, including perfect strangers. He had many nicknames such as Jimmy D. Cricket, Jimmy Jr, Mr. Farkle, Mr. Tudball. Everyone will remember his recent 80th birthday party with his family friends. May Jim rest in peace.
