James A. Arena's Obituary
James A. Arena, 82, of Syracuse, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 3, 2020 at Crouse Hospital. He was born January 29, 1938 in Syracuse to the late Larry and Mary Josephine (Di Cindio) Arena. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and uncle. James graduated from North High School and worked for Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation; he later retired from National Grid as a supervisor in the Property Records department after 33 years of service.
Dedicated to his faith and church, James attended the Formation for Ministry Program and served his church community by reaching out to the homebound. He was a member of the Holy Name Society and a member of the Senior Choir at Our Lady of Pompei/ St. Peter Church. In December 2012, Bishop Robert Cunningham honored him with the Immaculata Medallion in recognition of his extraordinary service to Our Lady of Pompei/ St. Peter Parish.
“Poppy’s” greatest pleasure was his family and most especially his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Jim is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Patricia (Fazio) Arena; children, Mark (Brenda) Arena, Lauri (Mark) Gildemeyer, and James Joseph Arena; grandchildren, Kimberly (Peter) McPartland, Matthew (Julianne) Arena, Jeffrey Gildemeyer, Michaela Gildemeyer, Chelsea Arena, and Eric Arena; four great-grandchildren, Tyler, Layla, Eli, and Madelyn; brother, Dominick (Barbara) Arena; along with several nieces, nephews, cousins and cherished extended family.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2020 from 11 am to 12:45 pm at Our Lady of Pompei/St. Peter Church, 301 Ash Street, Syracuse, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 1 pm. Entombment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery Mausoleum.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in James’ memory may be made to the Our Lady of Pompei/ St. Peter Building Fund.
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