James A. Calabrese

James Anthony Calabrese of Highland NY, died peacefully at his home on December 15th 2021 at the age of 69.  

Born July 4th 1952 in Witherbee NY to the late Frank and Philomena Calabrese. Along with his parents he was predeceased by his brothers Frank Jr. and Joseph Calabrese and sister Margaret (Calabrese) Vernum. 

He was a lifelong resident of NY state, spending much of his life in the Hudson Valley, where he worked and retired from the Wassaic Developmental Center. He enjoyed collecting clocks, crocheting, tending to his houseplants and caring for his beloved parakeets. He was an active and beloved member of the United Methodist Church of Highland and an avid participant in the Highland Community Backpack Program and the Heaven Cent Thrift Store. 

He is survived by his 3 children, Jeremy Calabrese of Wassaic NY, Jason Calabrese of Torrington CT and Jennifer (Mark) Vose of Pleasant Valley NY; 5 grandchildren, Tyler and Justin Calabrese, Michael Calabrese, Derek and Emily Vose and his former wife of 22 years, Susan Oaksford. He also leaves behind sisters, Josephine Tom, Evelyn (Kenneth) Goodspeed, Grace Benfield and brother Carlo Calabrese as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.  

He brought joy with his presence and would want to be remembered for giving the gift of laughter wherever he went.  

The family requests memorial donations to:  

First United Methodist Church of Highland  

57 Vineyard Ave, Highland NY 12528 

Mission: Heaven Cent Thrift Store  

All are welcome to join Jim’s family for graveside services at  

Saint Peter and Paul Cemetery  

Moriah, NY 

On June 17th, 2022 at 11:30 AM