Mr. Milton J. "Jim" Gau

CLINTON - Mr. Milton J. “Jim” Gau, age 74, passed away on Sunday, December 23, 2018 at MVHS at St. Luke’s Healthcare with his loving family by his side. Born in Utica on March 7, 1944, Milton was the son of the late Milton and Dorothy (Lutz) Gau. Raised and educated in New Hartford, he was a graduate of New Hartford High School/Class of 1962. On June 27, 1964 he married the former Rosalie Lazzaro with whom she shared 54 years. Their love and common interests made their marriage a success, and the blessing of children meant the world to him. Jim worked as a Route Salesman for Pepsi-Cola and he was fondly known as “Mr. Pepsi” or simply, #1. His affable, amenable personality was conducive to his line of work. He had a wonderful rapport with co-workers and clients, and was respected by his colleagues. He was a gentleman and was very proud of his work and his company. When he retired, he took many good-byes and good wishes with him. Jim was a gentle giant with an easy-going personality. He was methodically driven in his endeavors and always completed his projects in an orderly fashion. He was a hard worker and a good provider for his family. He took great pride in maintaining the exterior of his home, landscaping, and yard work. He took the wear-and-tear of his hard work on his body. One of the most memorable attributes remembered by all was his great sense of humor and the many nicknames fondly given to his loved ones. As a dad, he was a good listener and a confidant, offering his advice and guidance. His kids have fond remembrances of dad attending their sporting events, particularly when he showed up in the “Pepsi truck” for just a moment, these memories continue to warm their hearts. His granddaughter was his sunshine, and he loved her with all his heart. Jim and Roe’s house was home base for Thanksgiving. He was always willing to help in preparing for this great occasion. They spent endless efforts making pies and no one left the house without one in hand! Jim had a penchant for golfing with the Pepsi guys at area greens and playing with the Wednesday morning league at Westmoreland, as well as watching golf on television. He enjoyed the drama of Law & Order, and as a news buff, he always read the daily newspaper. He appreciated vintage cars and attended local car shows. Although he was a down-to-earth, old-school country music listener, he threw in an occasional polka. At the end of the day, Jim was an honest, humble man who knew that his greatest gift was having a family who respected and loved him. He was blessed in this life, and he believed in the Lord. Jim is survived by his wife, Roe; his children and their spouses, Jay J. Gau, Rachael and Emmanuel “Manny” Rivera, and Rebecca and Leland Foster; his granddaughter, Isabella Rivera, and 7 additional grandchildren. He also leaves his brother and sister-in-law, John and Colleen Gau; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, John P. and Cindy Lazzaro; nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, the many loyal friends who graced his life; and recently, the good neighbors of Applewood who were so kind and thoughtful. He was predeceased by his in-laws, Paul A. and Julia (Tringo) Lazzaro who he loved and respected. The family extends their gratitude to Jim’s numerous physicians, and the staff of the Regional Cancer Center and Radiation Department; and Rev. Tom Servatius for his Anointing and prayers. Visitation will be held Friday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Jim’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday morning at 9:00 from the funeral home and at 10:00 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Tom Servatius. Interment will take place privately in Crown Hill Memorial Park.

Mr. Milton J. "Jim" Gau

March 7, 1944 - December 23, 2018