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James Ciofu Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for James Ciofu
Jack and Monique on the beach at Lake Michigan
Monique Ciofu
October 27, 2007
I am really missing Jack today on the anniversary of his death. Life hasn't been the same without him and it still makes me sad to know he is gone. I love him with all my heart and every day I still wish he were here with us. Special thanks to each of you for taking the time to post a personal memory or express support for Jackson and I. I have read your remembrances many times and I want you to know how much we appreciate having these. It means a lot to us. He was a wonderful husband, father and friend who will never be forgotten!
Please feel free to contact us anytime at [email protected] or [email protected]. We would love to hear from any of you! Any friend of Jack’s is a friend of ours for life.
Monique
Roger Darnell
May 29, 2007
I kept a journal in 1990 and just re-read the following for the first time in many years: "Sat., Feb. 10, 1990. On a freelance job yesterday, I ran into Jack Ciofu once more. Jack is a really cool guy, a shaker/mover.... I've worked with him a couple of times -- he knows what he's doing, he likes doing a good job, he's patient and smart. I honestly hope, at his age (32) -- or 40 or onward -- I can have the potential of Jack Ciofu. I hope we'll be working together in the years to come." I just now found out about his passing and thought you, those who know and love him, might appreciate reading this candid appraisal of Jack from a virtual stranger who worked with him in Orlando. I regret your loss; he was a great guy, and was very inspirational to me.
Jim Owens
May 25, 2007
So what brings me here this May night, 2007? It's not unlike many other days or nights. I think of you often Jack and miss your call.......
FLA
Jim
Jim Papalexis
March 20, 2007
Time has a way of healing and it has also given me extra chances to remember so many things about Jack. My wife and I talk of him often and my twin girls remember the day I cried when he passed. They tell me it is ok because he is in heaven too.
Monique Ciofu
March 16, 2007
Jack,
Today, March 16, would have been your 50th birthday! I remember telling you countless times that I couldn’t wait until we both had birthdays in the same decade. We miss you Jack and wish we could have celebrated this day together. You will be in our hearts forever. Love always, Monique and Jackson
Andrea (Lerma) O'Hearn
October 30, 2006
Jack, I can't believe it's been a year since your passing. My heart still aches when I think you are no longer hear on earth. I miss you so much. I feel so blessed that you and I were childhood friends. Your smile, your laughter, your stories that go on forever!!!! You could make me bust out laughing anytime I saw or heard from you. You are the treasured friend that everybody wishes they had. You had a way to make everybody who met you feel special. Thank you for that Jack. And thank you for always being such a great friend. I love you forever!
Monique Ciofu
October 28, 2006
Letter to Jack
It’s been one year Jack since you left and not a day has gone by that Jackson and I did not miss you and find ways to remember you. The hard images of your illness are beginning to give way to comforting ones that playback so many warm times we had as a family. We struggled, but we did it together. We didn’t have a lot, but we had each other. And if I haven’t thanked you enough already, thank you dear for my beautiful son Jackson. I couldn’t have done it without you. He is a great kid and you were a great father Jack.
What I wouldn’t give for one of your incredible, loving hugs and a goodnight kiss. You were the best. You will always be our family and we won’t ever forget you.
Your wife and son
P.S. I just got my new blue and white Michigan license plates and guess what’s on it!
Jerry Blight
September 24, 2006
My company had hired Jack as a freelancer on several occasions, and one of my treasures is an autographed pic of Soupy Sales he got for me, as he was a friend of Soupy and called me when he was having lunch with him. A great guy but you WILL see him again.
Jeannie Ledbetter
March 18, 2006
Really missing you a lot.
Thomas Nichols
January 18, 2006
I had the pleasure of working with Jack only one time. His positive attitude, and helpful manner was amazing.He made a lasting impression on all of our staff. He spoke of his wife & son with glowing exuberence. I feel lucky to have met him. Thomas Nichols
Suzette Timmer Axdorff
November 28, 2005
Dear Jackson
I didn't know your dad well, but I do know that he loved you and your mother. He was a good role model for you and a loving father and husband. I think of you often and pray for you always. Love, Aunt Suzie & Uncle Tom
Michelle Timmer Benningfield
November 25, 2005
Dear Monique and Jackson,
You will always be in our prayers.
Love from,
Michelle, Dan, Andy, Molly, and Emily
Colleen Bergin
November 16, 2005
Dear Monique and Jackson,
Jack brought a smile to many faces. He laughed easily and never met a stranger. What a good guy! We're proud and grateful to have known Jack. Our love to you and Jackson.
Colleen & Bill
Gary Kucharski
November 13, 2005
I have known Jack my entire life, he lived 4 houses down. I always thought of Jack as my brother not just a friend. We shared some great times, met new people. If you've been with Jack you always made new friends. For the last 10-15 years, Jack would call me up when he was in town, our get togethers were alway last minute but the times were unforgetable. From fishing trips,snowmobiling to just plain hanging out on the boat we shared some great memories. We all lost one great friend and to me and others a brother who truly loved life.
Meghan Wandell
November 10, 2005
I am so so sorry for your loss. Jack was such a wonderful person and a dear friend to my dad, Rick. I know that he will be missed greatly and your family is in my prayers.
Laurel Hamalainen
November 8, 2005
Monique and Jackson--
I'm thinking of you today. Though we had a chance to talk together, Monique, please know that you and Jackson continue to be in my thoughts and are always in my heart. I'm so glad I had a chance to meet Jack, even if it was only via phone and email. His warmth and caring about his family and friends really shone through. Love, Laurel
Lisa Ballo
November 7, 2005
Dear Monique, Jackson, Uncle Mike, Barb, Deano, Michael, Linda and Mary Beth,
What an honor to have been blessed to have Jack as a cousin. The warmth, love and laughter he brought to my life and others will not be forgotten.
You are all in my prayers.
Love, Lisa
Uncle George & Aunt Eleanor Ciofu
November 7, 2005
Monique and Jackson,
How blessed we have been to have Jackie as a nephew.
God Bless you both during this time of sorrow.
Uncle George & Aunt Eleanor
Kay Mitchell
November 6, 2005
Monique and family,
Bob and I want to send our sympathy to you and your family in this time of sorrow. Jack will be sadly missed by family, friends, and community. Kay and Bob Mitchell and family
Rick Lehman
November 6, 2005
Monique, My condolences to you and your son. Jack was a good man and will be missed.
Gail Gruenburg
November 5, 2005
To the entire Ciofu Family,
I am so sad to hear of your loss. Jack was really one of a kind- great sense of humor,sincere, thoughtful. Jack and I became friends in Jr. High and even though I havent seen him in years I never forgot what great times we had. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Take Care.
Jim Owens
November 5, 2005
There are not many people that you can meet in a lifetime that will make an everlasting impression on you. Jack was one of those people. With Jack, the day was always sunny, and the cup was always half full. Always seeing the positive and never a stranger to anyone. I'll never forget you Jack. ('75) To Monique and Jackson, my deepest sympathy.
Joe Ciofu (Cousin)
November 4, 2005
Can't think of a single time I seen him where he didn't make me smile or laugh.
I remember driving on a freeway and seeing two guys driving an orange car pulling a purple boat, the clash of colors made you laugh, and one of the occupants (Jack) had such an enormous smile that made it all seem normal.
What a true class act he was!
God Bless Cuz.
Dorothy Lehman
November 4, 2005
Monique and Jackson: The Lehman family wishes you the very best. I know that Jack will be sadly missed, but he will be remembered for ever.
Aunt Dorothy Lehman; Kay, David, Rick, Mark and Matt
Jan & Mary Stachura
November 4, 2005
You're all in our thoughts and prayers. Jack is your angel and is only as far as a thought.
Nancy (Ciofu) Olsen
November 3, 2005
I have been blessed to have had Jack as a cousin. He will be remembered fondly. To Monique and Jackson-my deepest sympathy. To Uncle Mike,Barbara and Deano, Linda, Michael and Marybeth-thinking of you during this sad time.
Nancy and family
Rob Terpstra
November 3, 2005
Dear Aunt Monique and Jackson,
Renee and I send our deepest sympathy to you. Jack always made people smile, he had the warmest, most outgoing personality. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Brian Ballo
November 2, 2005
Jack Ciofu was "real" person: direct and to the point. We all have a choice how to look at reality - and Jack always chose to look at life in a positive light. As Jack's cousin, we shared a special bond. What I will remember about Jack is that no matter how much time or distance was between us, whenever we could be in the same town, we found a way to get together for a good time. Monique and Jackson, you have a relative and uncle in California that will welcome you any time. Brian Ballo
Robert Ballo, Cousin
November 2, 2005
Dear Monique and Jackson:
Jack loved life! When he moved to California many years ago I can remember him flying (literally and figuratively) into town one day on a job and giving me a call that ended up with him staying at our home for a few days, Jack bringing me in on the gig and us just having a whirlwind of a time. I remember him visiting another time and being able take Jack to the Rose Bowl and have him "work" the shoot for me and us throwing the football on the fifty yard line after the game! Jack and I truly became great friends and professional peers as the years have gone on. Great friend, trusted cousin, filled with a positive outlook and lust for life he always added to my life (and my family's). My heart aches. We're all blessed to have Jack touch our lives.
John Ciofu
November 2, 2005
Jack was a very special person. He lived with me for a couple of months in Texas and I will never forget the times we shared. He was a fun person to be around and brought a smile to everyone he met. I was lucky enough to be his cousin and he tought me a lot about looking on the bright side of things. He will be missed but not forgotten.
Lance and Diane Timmer
November 1, 2005
Monique and Jackson, our Family will hold your Family in our Prayers. Please accept our sincere condolences.....Lance Timmer and Family
Barbara Loveland
November 1, 2005
Monique,
You and your son are in my thoughts.
John & Rob Cully
October 31, 2005
We enjoyed Jack's presence and upbeat spirit whenever he could join us on Scouting events. You have our deepest sympathy.
Mary Beth Fischer
October 31, 2005
Dear Monique and Jackson,
You have both been blessed to have Jack as your husband and your father. I know I've been to have him as my brother. His smile his laugh and energy for life will always be with all those he touched. I will miss him so very much and he will be in my heart forever.
Betty Hase
October 31, 2005
Monique,
May your fond memories bring you comfort. You are in my thoughts. I miss you.
Love,
Betty
(Cousin) Judi Ballo
October 31, 2005
Jack had a special way of being that left a permanent imprint on my heart. Thoughts of him will always bring a smile to my face. My deepest sympathy to Monique, Jackson and the entire Ciofu family.
The Zigich Family
October 31, 2005
Dear Monique, Jackson and The Ciofu Family,
We want to extend our deepest sympathy to all of you. We grew up on Pearl Street next to the Ciofu Family and were lucky enough to be a part of Jack's life for a very long time. You could always expect a wave and a smile from Jack even from the kitchen window. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with all of you in your time of sorrow.
Lois Maassen
October 31, 2005
Monique and Jackson--I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. I hope you know how many people love and care for you both. You'll be in my thoughts and prayers. Love--Lois
Angela Papalexis
October 31, 2005
The essence of Jack could be found in his eyes… always a smile in them and always energized! There are few people that my husband has spoken of that bring smiles and laughter to every shared story. Having never met a stranger, he has certainly left an admirable impression. The legacy he leaves to his son will in no doubt touch Jackson in the same magnetic way he touched us all. I am thankful that there are many stories to be shared about Jack. My love and thoughts are with Monique and Jackson along with the rest of the family.
Mike Caterino
October 31, 2005
Dear Monique and Jackson,
My heart is heavy for each of you in your loss. I trust that as you face the the coming days that you will be able to remember many of the wonderful things that you did and shared with Jack. These next weeks and months will be a time of sorrow, but it will also be an opportunity for great person growth. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mike Caterino
Joe Troyer
October 31, 2005
Monique and Jackson:
So sorry to hear the sad news. Jack was always a treat to work with and be around. My sincere condolences on your loss.
Joe Troyer
Jim Papalexis
October 31, 2005
Jack left an impression on everyone he met and everyone should have a friend like Jack in their life. He explored life and took you with him so you too could see the wonderful things it offered. I know he loved his wife and son and shared his enthusiasm with them. I will miss him but I will never forget him because he too shared his time with me. He was loved by many including me.
Jack in Alaska 2002
Jason Valentine
October 31, 2005
To Jack's Family & Friends,
Jack was without a doubt, one of the most special people i've ever met in my life. To say he always had a smile on his face was an understatement. I've never seen Jack not in a good mood, and his love of life and "never say no" attitude, helped me through many tough times both personally and professionally. He was just one of those guys that you were glad you met, and everyone in my life that i introduced him to felt the same way. He will be greatly missed.
Stephen LeBarron
October 30, 2005
My friend and associate, Jack, would never leave a room, unknown.
As a friend, Jack was warm, humorous, and truthful.
Professionally, Jack always moved in a confident and positive direction.
He embraced everything about life with gusto and passion.
It seemed like Jack lived many days as if they were his last day.
Jack lived right up until his last day.
I am blessed by our friendship.
I will miss my friend, Jack.
My heart goes out to Monique and Jackson for your loss.
I think Jack will forever be with you both.
Stephen
Cindy Rao/Kennedy
October 30, 2005
Dear Monique, Jackson and the entire Ciofu family,
I've known Jack my whole life. We grew up together. Whenever Jack was around, you knew you were gonna laugh. He had a terrific sense of humor. He was witty and funny, but had a warm and kind side too. He cared about people and was a true friend. I will always remember his beautiful smile, he will be greatly missed.
Love,
Cindy Rao/Kennedy and Bruce Kennedy
Ross Radig
October 30, 2005
Monique & Jackson,
Jack was one of the most charismatic people I have ever known. He was a great friend and a wonderful father. His larger than life attitude was loved by all and he was one of those people who always got things done. A true man of his word. Jack was always fun to be around. He will always be "Happy Jack" to me. I will miss him dearly. Lots of love.
Ross & Cathy Radig
Duffy Magin
October 30, 2005
My sympathies to you and yours at this sad time. I always enjoyed Jack's company and he was a good friend. He will be missed.
(Cousin) Darryl & Jan Bacha
October 30, 2005
We remember Jack's infectious smile and the way he embraced life which, in itself, is a lesson for us all. May the memories you shared keep Jack with you always.
Linda Baumann
October 30, 2005
Jack will be missed by so many people. He was a wonderful baby brother who brought joy and fun to almost any occasion. He lived life with a passion for new experiences and friendship. I see so much of him in his son Jackson. He was so loved and well cared for by Monique until the moment he died. Jack blessed my life and his memory will continue to do so.
Uncle Andy & Aunt Dorothy Bacha
October 30, 2005
Dear Monique & Jackson,
Our deepest sympathy in the loss of your beloved Jack & Father.
Our thoughts & prayers are with you .
Much love to both of you.
Leanne Haluska
October 30, 2005
Jackson and Mrs. Ciofu,
I just wanted to extend my sympathy to you and your family during this time. May your memories console you, and may it help to know how many people share your sorrow and stand with you in your time of need.
With Sympathy, Leanne Haluska (Jackson's 6th grade teacher)
Jim and MaryEllen Searn
October 30, 2005
Dear Monique,
Jima and i wish to extend our deepest sympathies to you and jackson for the loss of you beloved spouse and father. I know that you are strong, and that you will continue to be the best parent to Jackson. My heart is aching for you. You will be in my thoughts.
Love, Mary Ellen and Jim Searn
Barry Millns
October 30, 2005
Monique & Jackson,
So sorry to hear of your loss. Although I never met you, I'm sure that anyone so close to Jack would have to share his exhuberence for life and his warmth to mankind. I am a friend of Jack since our college days @ EMU. Please accept my deepest sympathy and condolonce. I know it is of no consolation, but heaven just got happier
Garry Boynton
October 30, 2005
Garry and Curtis were happy to spend Boy Scout summer camp with Jack and Jackson this year. He was a fun guy around a campfire and we will miss him.
Richard J. Wandell
October 29, 2005
Monique & Jackson
I think of all the wonderful times we shared and smile. I cherish the truly grand memories of moments and laughter. I will miss his character and the genuine friendship we had, his charisma and wit. My heart aches with knowledge he is gone, but his spirit lives and Jack will not be forgotten.
Peter and Helen Ballo
October 29, 2005
We will always remember Jack's exuberance and love of life; the way he lit up the room with his presence; the special touch he had with people; and the smile that he brought to all.
We feel blessed that he was a part of our lives.
Uncle and Aunt
Deano & Barbara Loupes
October 29, 2005
Monique & Jackson,
Jack was a very special warm and loving brother. Deano and I will miss him dearly.
Betty Timmer
October 29, 2005
Monique and Jackson,
Jack was a wonderful husband, father, and son-in-law. We will all miss him.
Love,
Mom
Monique Ciofu
October 29, 2005
I appreciate the thoughtful comments everyone has extended regarding the loss of our beloved husband, father, son and brother.
Terri Timmer
October 29, 2005
Please accept our very deepest sympathies. He will be missed.
Terri, John, Josh, and Stosh
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