James J Zito

James Zito’s story began in New York in 1939. He was the son of James J Zito Sr and Lucy Verdecanna.  Jimmy and his older brother Felix have always been close, some would say the best of friends. They were raised with Lucy, her husband Sal and Sal's son Vinny. James Zito Sr also had two daughters, Rose and Linda.

Jimmy married and started a family young. At 24 he married Maria Squillante and had his son James J Zito III. He had the spirit of the fighter from birth to his last hours, never backing down.

He had studied hard to become a millwright. He became a member of Local 740 and rose to foreman quickly. Financial security was very important to him. He always provided financially for his family and friends, sometimes to a fault. Jimmy didn’t rise alone, he brought several friends and family with him through the union sharing the financial security with them and their families. Jimmy was a silent giver. He didn’t want recognition for the gifts he gave. If you needed a shirt, he would take the one off his back and you wouldn’t know it was him until you would see him walking with no shirt on.

In his spare time Jimmy loved to be outdoors and hunt, but if you knew Jimmy his biggest passion was cooking and was always in the kitchen. He didn’t wear his heart on his sleeve but he put it in his food. If you were welcome at his table you were blessed. Jimmy had a builder's mind. He could design and construct anything. He was busy with projects all the time. He always kept his mind sharp, even when his body was failing.  

Jimmy visited Felix in Las Vegas one year and loved it. He debated back and forth but decided it would be better for his health and give him the opportunity to live his passions. He surrounded himself with great neighbors, friends and family. He was a great host and stayed in touch with many people from New York throughout the years. This also allowed him to maintain a relationship with his grandchildren Daniella Rose and James Joseph Zito IV, and Joshua James Zito lived locally in Las Vegas. Jimmy would take the kids to the mountains, lake, theme parks, water parks, shopping and casinos (back when Vegas was truly family friendly) and just share his time and talents with them. His only son James III has two more sons James Joseph Zito V (AKA Joey) and James Joseph Zito VI (AKA Jimmy) the Zito twins that unfortunately his dad was not able to meet and spoil, however he makes sure they know they know their grandpa and his gifts. The twins say goodnight to grandpa on the moon every night.

His son James III lights a candle every night since his passing and is saddened that he never had the chance to meet Rozelle Zito, however we know he is smiling down on his family with great pride.

He wasn’t a man of many words but he had a Grinch-like smile that let you know exactly what he was thinking. His conversations were valuable. If you were lucky enough to share your time or table with Jimmy you would have walked away a better person. 

He was able to say “good-bye” to many of his friends and family. 
As Jimmy’s cancer began to take over the last of his days it ultimately took his life in 2012, just 27 days before his 73rd birthday. He passed away with his only son by his side as he sat up in bed, pointed at everyone in the room as if taking a count, and took his final breath.

 

His impact was profound, leaving an indelible mark on all who crossed his path. He will be remembered for generations to come.

 

May his legacy endure in our stories, generosity and meal preparation for years to come. He made everyone feel special and his presence will be deeply missed.