James C. "Jim" Clipston

Mr. James C. “Jim” Clipston, age 75, of Utica, passed away on Tuesday, September 8, 2009 at the Masonic Care Community of NY with his family by his side. Born in Utica on September 9, 1933, James was the son of the late Edward and Mary (Moyer) Clipston. Raised and educated locally, he attended Kernan Elementary School and was a 1951 graduate of Utica Free Academy. A proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, he served his country during the Korean Conflict stationed on the U.S.S. Pickaway in Japan. On August 16, 1958 he married the former Carmela Simonelli with whom he shared 40 years prior to her passing on June 2, 1999; a very social couple, they enjoyed family life and a core of wonderful friends. A federal employee, Jim worked for 30 years as an Internal Revenue Service agent. He earned a reputation of being a fair man in his dealings with the public and his peers, retiring in 1987. Blessed with a great sense of humor, he was a practical joker who saw the lighter side of life. One of Jim's greatest joys in life was the time spent with his grandchildren. Generous, friendly and outgoing, he was a graceful dancer who enjoyed local social gatherings. He also enjoyed golfing and participated in the St. Anthony Golf League. Jim was a supporter of the local Legions and shared a membership with the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion Post #229, East Utica Optimist Club, and the Knights of St. John Commandery #385; he was very proud of his participation in the Idiot Club of Utica. After his wife’s passing, he became active and found much enjoyment in volunteering with the Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. Support Group. He was a parishioner of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Above all his other attributes and roles in life, Jim was a kind-hearted father who offered great moral support and guidance to his children who are now comforted in knowing that their parents are reunited for eternity. Jim is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Doreen A. and Dominick DeSimone, Jr. of Sauquoit; his son and daughter-in-law, Scott J. and Margaret “Peggy” (Huegen) Clipston of Cazenovia; his cherished grandchildren to whom he was affectionately known as “Poppy”, Alyssa and Jeremy Williams, Carina DeSimone, Misty Jurkowski, and Emily Clipston; and his special friend, Veronica Redmond. Survivors also include his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, in-laws, Mary L. Simonelli, John and Vera Simonelli, and Robert Simonelli; and his many loyal friends and neighbors. He was predeceased by his brother-in-law, Carl L. Simonelli. The family extends many thanks to the Clare Bridge Assisted Living facility whose personnel shared much kindness with Jim and his family; and the sincere staff of the Forestport Household at the Masonic Care Community of NY for providing such a comfortable facility for Jim. Visitation will be held Friday (today) from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St. corner of Hammond Ave. The Knights of St. John Commandery #385 will perform ritualistic services on Friday evening at 6:30 at the funeral home. By family request please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions in Jim’s honor to the Faxton-St. Luke's Regional Cancer Center in recognition of their outstanding kindness and concern; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Jim’s funeral service will commence on Saturday morning at 8:30 from the funeral home and at 9:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with Military Honors. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

James C. "Jim" Clipston

September 9, 1933 - September 8, 2009