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James Pappas Obituary
James is survived by his mother Olga K. Pappas; and brothers, George A. Pappas and Andrew G. Pappas. He was predeceased by his father George A. Pappas; and his sister Mary Jean (Pappas) Valchar.
He leaves behind many cousins, nieces and nephews who are located in various states, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Georgia and Louisiana. Jim also leaves behind his significant other Kathleen Mason; cousin Andrew C. Pappas; and best friend Doreen Chapman. Additionally, Jim leaves behind countless friends.
Jim graduated from East Lyme High School. He later attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida. Jim obtained a pilot's license as a result of solo flying at the former Waterford airport.
After living a short time in Colorado and Florida, he settled in Connecticut. He took over the family business, Main Street Laundromat in 1987, a local business that he owned until 2018. It was said that, whether you were a regular or first-time customer taking a vacation in Niantic, Jimmy treated you like a good friend he had known for many years. He took pride in his business; and it showed.
Jimmy enjoyed the comradeship of his golfing buddies over the years, traveling throughout the United States to play on many different courses. He was an avid New York Giants fan, a passion he shared with his uncle Steve. Over the last fifteen years, Jim enjoyed taking a number of cruises to Bermuda and the Caribbean. Jim's cooking hobby ranked him as a credible food critic among his friends. He would always be the one who procured the lobsters for family reunions. Importantly, he was deeply proud of his Greek Orthodox heritage.
Jimmy's smile will be missed and remembered. The family is grateful for the wonderful care he received at Greentree Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Waterford.
A private burial will be at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are entrusted to the Dinoto Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 3000 Whitney Avenue, #121, Hamden, CT 06518.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Pappas
Sponsored by Dinoto Funeral Home.
Dee
October 4, 2023
Time hasn´t lessened how much I miss you. Picture is from our last trip to Bermuda. Haven´t been back since then. I wish we had more time together...we always were teased about living together in our old age with your wife and my 99 dogs.
Miss ya friend
Dee
October 4, 2023
Nadine Baker
October 27, 2019
Jimmy gave me a peace and understanding of a major source of hurt in my life. I will never forget you Jimmy and will always be grateful for that gift. Rest in peace my friend.
Bill Zorzanello
October 15, 2019
Jim, I remember you as the nicest friendliest guy - always with a smile and kind to everyone. I'm sorry to say that that's last time I saw you, many years ago, is now the last time I ever saw you. Rest In Peace my friend - heaven just got a little better. To your friends and family, especially your brother George, I offer my deepest condolences.
Jerilyn Duefrene
October 14, 2019
I was so sorry to hear of Jimmy's passing. I used to do my laundry at Main Street Laundry and we always had great conversations. Jimmy always had a smile on his face and was so nice. Godspeed Jimmy and prayers to his family.
Jim Shake
October 14, 2019
It truly is sad to read of Jimmy's passing. It was always great to run into him along Main Street, Dunkin Donuts, or the grocery store. Jimmy was a fixture in Niantic - known and loved by all. I will remember his sense of humor and the laughs we had together - Go in peace Cuz, you will be missed. God Bless.
Nancy S Russell
October 14, 2019
I've missed chatting with Jimmy at the laundromat and sharing travel stories with him. My condolences to his family and friends.
John & Barbara Birmingham
October 13, 2019
After we sold the Pharmacy, we got all our Main Street news from you. It's hard to imagine a world without you in it. Rest in peace old friend.
Dee Chapman
October 13, 2019
Jimmy was my friend for nearly 25 years. Without having him in my life, I would not be the person I am today.
His kindness, enthusiasm warmth and great compassion made my life and many others much happier. He touched nearly everyone he met and was well loved by just about anyone who knew him.
I will miss this man but I know he is always near me in my heart and in other people. Love you Jim
Sue Jakobot Cash
October 13, 2019
Every time I came home to Niantic for a visit I could always depend on seeing that wonderful smile Jimmy had and his great sense of humor. My sincere sympathy and prayers for strength go out to his family. I am so sorry for your loss.
Michael Porretta
October 13, 2019
Dear jimmy I have known you for 50 years you where always a kind man fun to laugh with and a true friend you will be sadly missed Jim I remember are long talks and even more the great laughs we had Rest In Peace my dear friend
Sharon Reagan
October 13, 2019
So sorry for your loss.My deepest sympathy to the family.
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