James "Jim" Bufalino

It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that I share my father’s passing with you.  My dear Dad, James Angelo Bufalino, departed this world while I was holding his hand on June 10, 2023, at the remarkable age of 106. He leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and cherished memories that will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew him.

Born on May 23, 1917 Jim was a remarkable individual whose life spanned over a century, witnessing a world of tremendous change and progress. He believed in the power of life long learning, and was never without his iPhone. He loved watching baseball, especially the New York Yankees. His passion for the Yankees started as a young boy when he would hitchhike from Pittston, PA to Yankee stadium to watch Babe Ruth hit home runs. He loved telling stories of his meeting with Joe DiMaggio, one of his all-time favorite players.

Throughout his long and fulfilling life, he touched the lives of countless people, leaving an indelible impression on all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His wisdom, gentle nature, and ever-present smile served as an inspiration to many, reminding us all of the importance of compassion and embracing life's joys. He never ceased to enjoy his life, having celebrated his 100th birthday at Yankee Stadium and his 105th birthday being honored by the Tampa Bay Rays. Despite the fact that he was honored by the Rays, he remained faithful and was secretly rooting for the opposing team, his Yankees. His sense of humor never waned and his zest for life was ever present as he continued making new friends young and old at every opportunity. In recent months and weeks he enjoyed dancing, listening to, and singing along with the entertainment offered at Wickshire Countryside, his most recent place of residence. He thoroughly enjoyed his life up until the very day he passed.

As we bid farewell to my beloved father, we take solace in the extraordinary life he led, the memories we shared, and the lessons he imparted. His spirit will forever live on through his family who will carry forward his legacy with love, honor, and respect. Though our hearts ache with his loss, we find comfort in the knowledge that Jim is now at peace, reunited with his wife Frances, his daughter Marie, along with all his loved ones who passed before him.

Jim is survived by his daughter Carolyn (Nick) and his son-in-law Jim Bortnick; his grandchildren, Maryfran Powall (Vince), James Bortnick (Debra) and Corey Giannakas; his great-grandchildren, Sydney, Ryan and Mitchell Pascarella. He was preceded in death by his wife Frances, his daughter Marie Bortnick, his parents Rosario and Vincenza Bufalino, along with his brothers Charles, Angelo, Samuel, Joseph, and his sister Caroline. He also leaves behind my aunt and his life long friend Josephine Fasciana, as well as many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.  My father was fortunate enough to have two nephews, both named Russell, who are medical doctors. Not only were they close to him, but they were also always available whether he wanted to go window shopping for a new car or if he had a question concerning his health.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Saturday, June 24, 2023 at STEPHEN P. MIZNER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 404 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE, from 10:30 - 12:30, followed by a Mass of Resurrection at The Epiphany of the Lord Parish, St. Brigid Church, 383 Arch Street, Meadville, at 1:00 pm, with Fr. Jeff Lucas officiating. We invite all who knew and loved him to join us in commemorating his remarkable journey and bidding farewell to a truly extraordinary man. May his soul rest in eternal tranquility, and may we forever carry his spirit within us.

"Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear."

Jim will be laid to rest next to his wife in Roselawn Memorial Gardens.

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