James R. Christofanelli, 90, formerly of Niagara Falls, NY died on Tuesday February 1, 2011 at Daughters of Sarah Nursing Home in Albany, NY. Born in Chicago Heights, IL he was the son of the late Mario and Rose (Pituzzi) Christofanelli. He was predeceased by his wife Immaculate P. (Pastore) Christofanelli on July 28, 1972.

During World War II James
served in the U.S. Army from October 1, 1942 until his honorable discharge on December 22, 1945, his twenty-fifth birthday, and was awarded four Overseas Service Bars with service stripe, Asiatic Pacific Theater Ribbon with two bronze battle stars, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, and World War II Victory Medal. He was employed as a machine operator at the former Kimberly Clark Corp., later known as Nitec, and retired in 1980 after thirty five years of service. While living in Niagara Falls he was a longtime member and served as an usher of Our Lady of the Rosary Church. James was a handyman and jack of all trades. He especially enjoyed plumbing and electrical projects and was always willing to help others with their projects or repairs.

Mr. Christofanelli is survived by two daughters Roberta Christofanelli (late Gloria) of Highland, CA and Linda (William) Zinzow of Albany, NY; two grandchildren, three great grandchildren, two brothers Joseph (late Catherine) Christofanelli and Thomas (Bernice) Christofanelli both of Chicago Heights, IL; eighteen nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and many cousins. He was predeceased by two sisters Fausta Christofanelli, Angelina (late Mario) Gambarota, and three brothers Samuel (late Edith) Christofanelli, Anthony (Josephine of Chicago Heights, IL) Christofanelli, and Louis Christofanelli.

Visitation will be on Monday February 7th from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. at the M.J.COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY where funeral services will follow at 11:30 a.m. with Rev. Duane Klizek officiating. Interment with Military Honors in St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY. Flowers are gratefully declined. If desired memorial donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, 7020 AC Skinner Parkway, Suite 100, Jacksonville, FL 32256 or www.woundedwarriorproject.org.