7/10/1958 – 12/19/2020
It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of James (Jamie) Zappolo on Saturday, December 19, 2020 at Connecticut Hospice in Branford, CT surrounded by his family.
Jamie was born July 10, 1958 to Rosemarie and V. James Zappolo. He is survived by his loving wife Kristene, beautiful daughters JamieRose and Jenna, sister Cathy (and brother-in-love Bauer) Sumpio, sister Sally Beahm and husband Martin, and dearest Aunt Honey and Uncle Tom Kelsch. His first cousins Thomas Jr, Christopher, and Rory Kelsch have always been considered siblings as well. Jamie was also adored by his mother and father-in-law, Kathy and John Sullivan, and his sister in-laws, Liz (and Greg) Lilley, Jen (and John) Astrab, and Carolyn (and Jason) Gordon.
Jamie was raised in Lake Carmel and lived in North Salem for the past 20 years. Jamie had many fond memories from his childhood – from being an altar boy at St. James the Apostle Church, to lifeguarding at the beaches of Lake Carmel, and working with Nonny and Poppy (Sally and Paul De Marie) in his grandfather’s store (Paul’s Market). Jamie graduated Carmel High School in 1976 and has life-long friends from those days. During the years he worked with mentors in several popular restaurants and businesses including Birch Hill Ski Resort, Happy Valley Restaurant, Gypsy Trail Country Club, Backstreets, and Eduardo’s Restaurant. He continued to work in the wholesale food industry, running A&B Foods, and servicing restaurant accounts across Westchester County. He also spent several years in the liquor sales business and as a limousine driver.
A life-long sports enthusiast, Jamie played football, followed the NY Yankees and Giants, and then as a Dad took great pride watching his daughters play soccer, field hockey, and competitive basketball. He also was an avid fan of music, and was especially fond of rock and roll. Jamie appreciated great live performances and attended hundreds of concerts over the years. He had a passion for cooking as well and always enjoyed sharing a good meal with family or friends.
Jamie was a devoted Uncle to his many nieces and nephews, and a generous friend to anyone in need. His soft spot was always children; he loved babies more than a doting mother, but really any child at any age. Jamie had the ability to befriend people from all different walks of life. If he liked you, it was true affection, and you were a forever friend. Jamie fought a brave battle against his illness (multiple sclerosis), never once complaining, instead loving life to the fullest and making the most of every day. His courage and strength will never be forgotten. He was truly one of a kind, and we are all blessed to have had him in our lives.
The funeral mass and the blessing at the funeral home will be available remotely for those who cannot attend.
A celebration of Jamie’s life will be announced at a later date.