James Frank Aliquo

James Frank Aliquo, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and educator, passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on Thursday, October 16, 2025. Born in October 1933 in South Fork, Pennsylvania, Jim was one of four brothers-Dominick, Frank, and Benny. He was named after his father and grandfather, James Vitale, a coal miner whose legacy shaped Jim's early years at the top of the mountain in South Fork.
Jim's childhood was filled with memories of playing basketball at the feed mill, climbing the mountain, and helping his mother, Rose. He learned the value of hard work early, assisting his father in the family shoe repair shop and helping make wine in the basement. Jim's sense of responsibility and humor shone through even in mischievous moments with his brothers.
He served in the Army during the Korean War, training as a dental hygienist and working in a Pittsburgh hospital for Prisoners of War. After his service, Jim earned a bachelor's degree in education from Saint Francis of Loretto and a Master's degree from Towson University. He married his beloved Rae at St. Joseph's Church, beginning a 68-year partnership blessed with three children, six grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
Jim's distinguished career in education began in Delaware, where he taught biology and coached basketball. His commitment to excellence earned him statewide recognition as Biology Teacher of the Year, followed by the prestigious National Teacher of the Year award-honors that reflected his dedication and innovative approach in the classroom. Beyond teaching, Jim served as assistant principal and principal at McKean High School, where he championed school spirit and empathy, leaving a lasting mark on the school community. After retiring, he continued to inspire learners at the Lifelong Learning Academy at the University of Delaware. In recognition of his enduring influence, Jim was honored as one of McKean High School's 50 cornerstones during its 50th anniversary celebration.
A lover of dancing, Jim cherished weekends spent with friends and family, creating memories that would last a lifetime and earned him the name of "Feets" in his hometown. His legacy is one of kindness, resilience, and unwavering commitment to those he loved. Even at the very end, Jim loved everyone around him and wanted to celebrate being together with them. He often mentioned, when we left him, "wait until I get my wallet", as he was always ready to go. Jim's life was a tapestry of hard work, laughter, and devotion-a story that will be remembered and celebrated by all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife Rae; their children, Jimmy and Judy Aliquo, Kathy and Bill Brown, and David and Lisa Aliquo; grandchildren, Abby and Erica Brown, Erin and Kyle Clevenger, Gabriel and Emily Aliquo, Jake and Kristin Aliquo; great-grandchildren, Cora Clevenger, Hans Aliquo, Isla Clevenger, Max Aliquo and Rhys Clevenger. Jim's memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones, and his spirit will continue to inspire future generations of people and Biology lovers everywhere.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at noon on Friday, October 24 at St. Helena's Church, 602 Philadelphia Pike, Wilmington, DE 19809, where family and friends may visit from 10:30 - 11:45AM. A private burial service with family will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association, PO Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011 (https://donorservices.alz.org).
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