James Domenic Chiapuzio

BESSEMER, Mich. - James Domenic Chiapuzio, 84, of Bessemer, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 26, 2022, with his family at his side.

James was born on Jan. 5, 1938, in Anvil Location, Bessemer Township, a son of Domenic Anton and Albertina Marie (Callovi) Chiapuzio. He attended Bessemer schools.

At a young age, James joined the U.S. Navy and proudly served his country for nearly four years. He was honorably discharged as a seaman apprentice on Dec. 19, 1958.

On April 30, 1960, James was united in marriage to Carol Cleone Thiede at Christ the King Catholic Church in Ramsay by the Rev. Louis C. Cappo. Together, they were blessed with four children.

James was a member of St. Sebastian Catholic Church in Bessemer and a dedicated volunteer at the St. Vincent de Paul Store in Bessemer. He was an avid Atlanta Braves fan and cherished his time at the hunting camp. James loved his family, absolutely adored his grandchildren and would do anything for them and was a wonderful caregiver to his dear wife, Carol.

He was a miner and employed at the White Pine Copper Company.

James is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 62 years, Carol; four children, Jim Chiapuzio (Sue Johnson), Gene Chiapuzio, Renee (Pete) Volpe and Tina (Mark) Bruns; his faithful daughter-in-law, Jane Chiapuzio; 11 grandchildren, Amanda (Derek) Gauger, Michael Chiapuzio, Peter (Julia) Volpe, Andrew Chiapuzio, James John Chiapuzio, Jake Chiapuzio, Jordy Chiapuzio, Katie (Brendan) Cunningham, Christopher (fiancée Brittany) Chiapuzio, Brett Chiapuzio and Allison Chiapuzio; seven treasured great-grandchildren; two sisters, Janet (John) Juonie and Debi (Bill) Joki; a brother, Bob (Carole) Chiapuzio; two brothers-in-law, Chuck Tauer and Walt Thiede; three sisters-in-law, Mary Ellen Chiapuzio, Barbara Chiapuzio and Kathy Thom; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; and many dear friends, including very special friends, John and Gerie Saari.

He was predeceased by his parents; and four sisters and two brothers, Gladys Tauer, Domenic Chiapuzio, Margie Chiapuzio, Peggy Chiapuzio, Jack Chiapuzio and Janet Grace Chiapuzio, in infancy.

The family is honoring his life in a private service.

A graveside service, with military honors, will take place at the Hillcrest Cemetery in Bessemer, in the spring.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with their arrangements. To send online condolences please go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.