James Lamica, Jr.

James A. Lamica, Jr.
April 13, 2016

James A. "Jim" Lamica, Jr., 87, of Clay passed away peacefully on Wednesday. He was born on June 21, 1928 in Tupper Lake, NY, son of the late James, Sr. and Madeline Lamica. Jim grew up in Watertown and served in the US Army during the Korean War. In June of 1951 he was united in marriage to Clementine Fusco. Jim graduated from Syracuse University in 1957 and earned his Masters Degree at SUNY Oswego. He taught 6th grade in the North Syracuse School District before becoming an administrator at Lakeshore Elementary, Smith Road Elementary and Gillette Road Middle School. After his retirement in 1991 he volunteered at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo for more than 20 years. Jim was a tour guide, educator and his most famous role was Santa Claus. He was an avid reader, an artist, he enjoyed music and all things Orange, namely Syracuse University Sports.

He was predeceased by his wife Clementine in 2014, his sister, Joan T. Lamica of Watertown, NY brothers; George E. Lamica of Wilmington, NC, and Carleton H. Lamica of Watertown, NY.

Surviving are his son, James A. (Donna) Lamica, III, their 2 children; Dawn Johnson & David Sardella and granddaughter, Kayla Sardella; a daughter, Patti A. (Charles) Stringer, and their 2 children; Rachael and Noah, his brother Frank "Butch" (Brenda) Lamica of St. Petersburg, FL, along with several nieces and nephews. He will also be missed by numerous students he influenced throughout his career.

Calling hours will be held on Monday from 4-7pm at New Comer Funeral Home, 705 N. Main St., N. Syracuse, with services to follow at 7pm. Burial will take place at Glenwood Cemetery in Watertown on Tuesday at 11am.

Contributions may be made to the Rosamond Gifford Zoo.




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