James L. Calantropio

James L. Calantropio, age 78 of Lake Hopatcong, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Overlook Medical Center in Summit, NJ. Born in Brooklyn to the late Louis J. and Caroline R. (Cirillo) Calantropio, James grew up in Cedar Grove and lived in Sussex County before settling in Lake Hopatcong in 2018.

James was a graduate of Memorial High School in Cedar Grove, Class of 1965, and went on to attend Seton Hall University, where he completed the ROTC program and was commissioned as an officer upon graduation. He proudly served in the United States Army, including service in Vietnam from 1970 to 1971. He later returned to Seton Hall University to earn his master's degree and complete additional post master's study.

James dedicated 35 years to the West Milford School District, where he served as a Spanish teacher, guidance counselor, and later assistant principal in the middle school. He left a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues and was known for his steady guidance, humor, and deep commitment to the young people he served.

He was deeply devoted to his family and siblings and especially adored his grandchildren, lighting up whenever he was with them. His wicked sense of humor and quick wit brought laughter to even the most ordinary moments. James was a big outdoor enthusiast and could often be found gardening, going to the beach, and riding on his motorcycle. He was also very artistic, specializing in watercolor paintings and basket weaving.

James is predeceased by his parents Louis J. and Caroline R. (Cirillo) Calantropio, and his daughter Melissa Bailey in 1995.

James is survived by his loving wife Maureen (Norton) Calantropio; children Anthony Calantropio (Sarah Hessler), Jamie Calantropio (fiancé Amanda Mylius), Jodi Accavallo (Anthony), and Deena Accardi (Joseph); and grandchildren Daniel, Amelia, Ryleigh, Londyn, Ashlynn, Lawson, Bennett, Anthony (AJ), Raegan, and Carson. James is also survived by his siblings Steven Calantropio (Adele Castaldo), Marianne Kendelski, and Michael (Mickey) Calantropio, as well as his beloved niece, nephew, great niece and great nephews, and his extended family.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, March 22, 2026 from 12:00-5:00 PM at the Ferguson-Vernon Funeral Home, (One Vanderhoof Court for GPS) 241 Route 94, Vernon, NJ 07462. A funeral service will be held on Monday, March 23, 2026, 10:00 AM at the funeral home, followed by interment at Glenwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital (501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105) or the Gary Sinise Foundation (Gift Processing Center, PO Box 1858, Merrifield, VA 22116).

He will be deeply missed, and his legacy lives on in the generations of students he encouraged, the colleagues he inspired, and the family who will always carry his love and humor forward.