James E. "Poppy" Schram

Mr. James E. "Poppy" Schram, 83, of Utica, passed away on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at MVHS Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in New Hartford, with his loving son by his side. James was born in Utica, on March 3, 1942, the son of Adam and Helen (Olech) Schram. He was raised locally and attended Whitesboro High School. James proudly served in the US Army from 1965 until his honorable discharge in 1967. In 1978, James was united in marriage with Carol Ann (Rubino) Betrus, and the couple shared 46 wonderful years together until Carol's passing in 2024. For many years, James was employed with Coca Cola Corporation, later with Muller Construction Company, Christian Construction Company, Griffiss Air Force Base and lastly as a bus driver at Turning Stone Resort and Casino He was such a valued employee at Turning Stone, that after his surgery in 2003, they asked him to return to work, despite the fact that he was unable to speak. Poppy enjoyed fishing, hunting and was a big sports enthusiast, especially the NY Yankees, Buffalo Bills and Utica Comets and was honored as a "Hometown Hero". He was a member of American Legion Fort Schuyler Post 1290 in Utica, where he enjoyed meeting up and having a drink (Crown Royal) with a few of his dear friends. Poppy will be remembered as a gentleman who loved being with people. His strength and perseverance in dealing with many health issues was an inspiration to those who knew and loved him. Mr. Schram is survived by his devoted son and daughter-in-law, Joseph, Jr. and Linda Betrus of N. Utica; cherished granddaughter, Alyssa Betrus of N. Utica, great grandson who was the light of his life, Ezra. Two sisters, Constance Lorenz and Elinor Smith, both of Whitesboro, as well as many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, Adam and Helen and beloved wife Carol, James was predeceased by two brothers-in-law, Richard Smith and Edward Lorenz. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to James' funeral Mass of Christian burial on Monday, October 6, 2025, at 10:00 am at St. Mary of Mount Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay St, Utica, NY 13501. The family will greet visitors at the conclusion of the funeral Mass. He will be laid to rest with his beloved Carol in Calvary Cemetery in Utica. Those wishing to donate in James' memory, please consider American Legion Fort Schuyler Post 1290, 404 Kossuth Ave., Utica, NY 13501. Mr. Schram's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to nurse manager Amanda and the entire staff at the MVHS Rehabilitation and Nursing Center for the wonderful care and compassion you provided to him. A special thank you to Poppy's many friends at American Legion Fort Schuyler Post, The Dinghy Bar, Paul's Pub and Rob Esche and Jeff Stone at Babe's at Harbor Point for always welcoming Poppy with open arms and making him feel right at home. Your kindness will not be forgotten. Funeral Arrangements are entrusted to Heintz Funeral Service, Inc., N. Utica.