James Catalino, Sr's Obituary
James "Jim" Catalino, Sr.
December 16, 1945 - September 29, 2024
James Catalino, Sr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2024, at his home in Oklahoma, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on December 16, 1945, in Passaic, New Jersey, to William and Josephine (Montalbano) Catalino, and grew up in a close-knit Italian-American family filled with love, laughter, and strong values.
Jim met the love of his life, Judith Robinson, through a mutual friend at a party. The two fell in love and were married on October 3, 1970, in a beautiful ceremony at St. Joseph and Michael Roman Catholic Church in Union City, New Jersey. Together, they built a life filled with love and joy, raising their children-Beth, Jimmy, Trisha, and Sharon-in a home where family always came first.
A lifelong fan of the New York Yankees and the Giants, Jim's passion for sports was contagious. When he and Judy relocated to Oklahoma 14 years ago, he eagerly adopted new teams, cheering on the Oklahoma Sooners and the Oklahoma City Thunder with the same enthusiasm he had for his beloved New York teams.
Jim's entire working career was spent in the moving and storage industry, a field where he found his calling. In addition, he worked in real estate for more than a decade when his children were young. In 2012, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by founding his own moving business, OIR Moving and Storage, where he was able to provide for his family while serving others.
A man with a servant's heart, Jim was always willing to lend a hand to those in need. His generosity and selflessness were cornerstones of his character; he believed in giving without expecting anything in return. He had a deep love for history, National Geographic, and war documentaries, often sharing his knowledge and passion with anyone who would listen.
Above all, Jim was a dedicated family man who adored his grandchildren. Whether it was attending their activities or spending time with them, Jim made sure his grandkids knew they were his world. His presence was a constant source of love, support, and guidance.
Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Judy Catalino; his beloved children, Beth Brady and husband Roger, Jimmy Catalino and wife Kathy, Trisha Catalino and husband Trevor, and Sharon Catalino and husband Justin; his cherished grandchildren, Meagan, Kaileigh, Jordan, Julia, Amelia, Gabriella, Shane, Ryan, and Lincoln; and his brother, Joseph Catalino. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Samuel, Josephine, Amelia, William, Michael, Leonard.
Jim's legacy of love, generosity, and devotion to his family will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will be cherished forever.
A celebration of Jim's life will be held at 11am Saturday, October 5, 2024 at Rivercrest Chapel, where family and friends will gather to honor the man who gave so much and asked for so little.
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