Oakville - James D. Barone, 59, of Oakville passed away unexpectedly on July 23rd, just in time to miss his beloved Yankees take the lead in their opening game. He was the loving husband of Tracy Ralston.
Jim was born on February 4th, 1961 in White Plains, New York. He was the son of Cynthia M. Barone and the late Frances A. Barone. His mother, Cynthia still vividly tells the story of how his entrance into this world involved a huge snowstorm and a police escort. He attended Watertown public schools where he formed the friendships he would keep and cherish for his entire life. He attended the University of New Haven where he majored in Parties and minored in Economics.
The man better known as the Bear never lost his knack for making an entrance. Anywhere he went, he either saw a friend or found one. He laughed from his gut and had a sense of humor reminiscent of Don Rickles. He loved a good party and he threw even better ones. As anyone who lived near him in Oakville knew, the Christmas spirit was strong in the Bear. His outside seasonal decorations gave Clark Griswold a run for his money.
The Bear traveled extensively, especially in the years he spent in manufacturing sales. He enjoyed vacationing (especially if golf was involved) but his favorite place to be was on his back porch with family and friends, cigar in one hand and vodka club in the other. He enjoyed watching most sports, especially golf and baseball, which he also played for much of his life. He was a member of the Watertown Golf Club.
Besides his loving wife, he leaves behind his mother Cynthia M. Barone of Watertown. He will be missed everyday by his daughter, Julianne of Oakville. He leaves behind two brothers Stephen Barone (Tammie) of Plymouth and William Barone of Stamford; his beloved godfather and Uncle David Ellis of Fort Collins, Colorado as well as two nieces, several aunts, uncles and cousins. He will also leave behind his friends and fellow patrons at O'Joes, who I'm sure will miss him very much. The Bear is predeceased by his father Frank and his treasured friend, Mike Schuit.
A private ceremony will be held on Tuesday July 28th at Lyons Funeral Home in Thomaston. With respect to the pandemic, we request that only family attend. At a date to be announced, the family will be hosting a celebration of life for him at the VFW Post 5157 in Watertown where he was an auxiliary member for many years. To send notes of sympathy and comfort to his family please visit his tribute page at www.lyonsfuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to that VFW Post 5157 866 Thomaston Rd. Watertown, CT 06795