James C. Catapano

James "Jim" Catapano, a cherished father, brother, grandfather, amazing uncle and friend, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2025, at the age of 67. Born on April 2, 1958, in Newark, Jim's early years were filled with the vibrant energy of the city he called home. His life was a tapestry of love, laughter, and dedication, woven through the years with the threads of family, friendship, and a passion for life's simple pleasures.

Jim's journey took him from the streets of Newark to the warm embrace of Union for 15 years, where he and his wife, Susan, raised their three children, Jessica, James, and Katarina. The family home was a hub of joy, with Jim's laughter echoing through the halls. Jim's path led him to the serene landscapes of Forked River, where Jim's heart found solace in the coastal breezes and the tranquility of the shore.

A man of great character and warmth, Jim's legacy is carried on by his children, Jessica Catapano and her husband Adam Binetti, James Catapano, and Katarina Catapano, as well as his former wife, Susan Catapano-Moore. His life's story is further enriched by the love of his four siblings, Laura Hoarle, Michael Catapano, Salvatore Catapano, and Kathryn Fernandez. The light of his life shone brightest when he was with his two beloved grandchildren, Khloe and Julian Binetti, whose adventures and dreams he cherished with all his heart.

Jim's professional life was marked by a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence. For many years, he navigated the roads as a truck driver, a role that allowed him to explore and connect with the world around him. Later, he found a new calling as a technician at Powerfect, working alongside his brother and forming bonds that extended beyond the workplace.

Sports were a cornerstone of Jim's life. From his days on the basketball court to his leisurely rounds of golf, he embraced the spirit of competition and camaraderie. Football season was a special time for Jim, with college ball holding a particular place in his heart. His enthusiasm for the game was infectious, and his presence at gatherings was a guarantee of good times and lively debates.

Jim's love for cooking was legendary, and his kitchen was a place of gathering and gastronomic delight. He took joy in feeding not just the body but the soul, ensuring that no one left his table without a full stomach and a happy heart. Summers were spent creating memories in Keansburg and later Seaside Park, where the beach and swimming were sources of endless fun for Jim and his family. The thrill of the races at Monmouth Park was another of Jim's pleasures, where he shared his excitement and passion with those he loved.

To remember Jim is to recall his great smile and infectious laugh, which could light up a room and lift the spirits of all who heard it. He was the embodiment of kindness and humor, touching lives in ways that will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.

As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we take comfort in the knowledge that his spirit lives on in the stories we share, the meals we savor, and the laughter we cherish. Jim's memory will forever be a beacon of love, guiding us through the days ahead with the same warmth and light he brought to every moment of his life.

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