James C. Chieco

James (Jim) Christopher Chieco passed away at the age of 75 on February 27, 2025 in Fresno, California surrounded by family.

He was predeceased by his father James V. Chieco, mother Edna R. Verdon, brother Patrick A. Chieco, and nieces Danielle Murphy and Ashley Chieco. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Jean Chieco, children Kaitlin Chieco Masterson, Daniel Chieco, Donna Chieco, Stephanie Chieco, and daughter-in-law Laken Masterson. He is also survived by his former wife, Sharon Falco Chieco, siblings Patricia Chieco Garcia (Julian), Elaine Armas (née Chieco), Joseph Chieco (Sara), Gary Chieco (Rosa), and Donald Chieco (Pam), many loved nieces and nephews, extended family, and friends.

Anyone who knew Jim knew he was a "helper". He was born at St. Mary's Hospital in Hoboken and spent his childhood in Weehawken - he loved his childhood and friends, especially enjoying good times at Palisades Amusement Park. He was a very talented baseball player and on almost any day, he could be found at the baseball fields. He served as an alter boy at St. Lawrence church.

Jim honorably and proudly served in the United States Army and United States Navy during Vietnam. Jim was a Paratrooper and jumped out of planes more than 100 times, often sharing that he "learned how to fall properly" there. He was most connected to the 173rd Airborne Brigade community and always looked forward to connecting with friends at the annual summer reunions and beyond. The relationships he shared with his fellow service members were treasured and often spoken about. Jim loved his job working for Veteran Affairs and worked tirelessly to ensure that those who also served their country were able to access the benefits that they deserved. He helped hundreds of veterans get life-enhancing services. His dedication to honoring those who served was unwavering.

His pride and love for his family, including his wife Jean and his children shone brightly. He coached many of his children's sports teams and loved bringing them to their practices and games. He enjoyed many fun times with his children at the baseball/softball fields, on the boardwalk, feeding the ducks by the Hudson River, and at Disney in Orlando.

Jim made friends wherever he went - he had a big heart, a great sense of humor, and was a go-to resource for many. His primary focus was loving, being with, and caring for his cherished wife, Jean. They shared a deep connection, often finished each other's sentences, and their collective love and kindness extended to others. Jim enjoyed spending time with his family, helping others, and supporting his New Jersey and Military community. He also enjoyed playing the lottery ("you've got to be in it to win it"), watching movies/musicals, and listening to music (especially Cousin Brucie's show).

Jim's soulmate Jean, his family, and all who were lucky enough to know and love him will miss him dearly given the profound impact he had on their lives.

There will be an intimate service in Fresno, CA on March 5th. A celebration of life ceremony will be held on March 22, 2025 at 10AM at Saint Lawrence Church (https://www.stlweehawken.com/) in Weehawken, New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in his name to St. Jude's Hospital.

Donation Link: (https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=8728907&fr_id=154020&pg=personal).