With deep sadness, the family of James Francis "Jim" Bonacum shares the news of his passing on Saturday, April 26, 2014.

Jim, the husband of Joan Bonacum (nee Paddell) for 55 years, was a wonderful father. His children Beth Bonacum, Leslie Bonacum, Doug Bonacum, and Lynn Dennis, and their families, will miss him greatly. Through actions and words, he was a loving and important influence in their lives. He was also the cherished grandfather of Amy and John Virga; Kyle, Alex, Grace, and Liam Bonacum; and Abigail, Nate, and Leah Dennis; and dear brother-in-law of Elaine Higgins and Martin Paddell. He is survived by an extended family, who will remember him with great fondness.

The son of the late Margaret (Haffey) and William A. Bonacum, Jim was born March 12, 1931, in Astoria, N.Y. He was pre-deceased by his beloved wife Joan, brother William, and sister Joan.

Jim proudly served his country in the Korean War as a member of the U.S. Navy from 1951-1955. For 30 years, he worked for Londontown Manufacturing. Jim and his family lived in New Providence, N.J., and he loved his life there, surrounded by truly wonderful neighbors and friends. A gentleman, Jim also loved athletics – from playing pick-up basketball, to neighborhood softball games on summer nights, coaching his children's sports teams, golfing, and – from his armchair – leading the N.Y. Giants and St. Louis Cardinals on to many wins. He and his family also loved the summers on Otsego Lake, and following the passing of his wife, Jim moved to Oneonta, close to his daughters Beth and Lynn. For the past three years, Jim was a resident of the Chestnut Park Nursing Center, and the family is grateful to all who cared for him there.

He will be remembered by his children as the best father a man could be, and he will be missed by all who knew him.

A graveside service with full military honors will be held in the Sparta Presbyterian Cemetery, Sparta, N.J., on Monday, June 2, 2014 at 11:30AM. Arrangements are with Courtney Funeral Home, Walton, N.Y. Condolences to the family may be made online at www.courtneyfh.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.