James F. Kattato, Jr.

James F. “Jim” Kattato, Jr., age 68, a lifelong Frankfort resident, passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening, September 2, 2026, at Wynn Hospital, with his loving wife and son by his side.

Born on October 5, 1957, Jim was the son of the late James F. Sr. and Mary F. (Zaffarano) Kattato. He was raised and educated in Frankfort and graduated with the Frankfort-Schuyler Class of 1975. He went on to attend SUNY Brockport, where he earned his bachelor’s degree.

Jim devoted his career to helping individuals with both mental and physical disabilities. He had a genuine soft spot for those in need and found purpose in helping others achieve greater independence. Throughout his career, he worked with several organizations in the Mohawk Valley, including HTC, ARC Oneida-Lewis and RCIL. He spent his final years with RCIL as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, a position he truly loved. His work was much more than a career—it was his passion. Jim continued working until his health no longer allowed him to do so.

On May 11, 1991, Jim married the former Michele M. Cavaretta at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Utica. Together, they shared a blessed union of 35 years filled with love, laughter and togetherness.

Social yet unassuming, Jim was a person who valued friendships and the simple pleasures of life. He was a longtime member of the St. Francis di Paola Society in Frankfort and cherished the many friendships he made throughout the years. Among those friendships, none was more special than that of his lifelong best friend and “brother,” Pete Fumarola. Their friendship stood the test of time, and Pete remained by Jim’s side until the very end.

Jim was always fit and active and was an avid runner, often taking on the familiar “Frankfort Loop” throughout the years. He was also a diehard Rams fan, faithfully following the team from Los Angeles to St. Louis and back to Los Angeles again. Few things brought him more enjoyment than settling in for a Rams game on a Sunday, with a cold Budweiser in hand. He was also a devoted Beatles fan.

Above all else, Jim’s greatest love was his son, Philip. The two shared a bond like no other, and Jim was immensely proud of Phil and all of his accomplishments.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Michele; his son, Philip Kattato and his fiancée, Sarah Ewald, of Arlington, VA; his mother-in-law, Mary Lou Cavaretta of Frankfort; an aunt, Mary Catherine Tocci; an uncle, Joseph Zaffarano; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He also leaves behind countless friends made throughout the years.

He was predeceased by his parents, James F. Sr. and Mary F. Kattato; his father-in-law, Philip Cavaretta; and numerous aunts and uncles.

In keeping with Jim’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral services. Those wishing to honor his memory may consider a memorial donation to the Frankfort Fire Department Ambulance, 158 South Litchfield Street, Frankfort, NY 13340. The volunteer firefighters and EMTs were always there for Jim throughout the years whenever he was in need, and their care and compassion meant a great deal to him and his family.

Jim's family would like to thank the staff of Foltsbrook Center Rehab, especially Carrie and Lexi for their empathy and patience, and Mike, who prayed with Jim and offered support to his family. Also, a special thanks to the Wynn Hospital ICU for their kindness and compassion to Jim and his family at the end of his life.

Jim will be remembered for his generous heart, his devotion to his family, his passion for helping others, his lifelong friendships, and the quiet, genuine way he touched the lives of so many.

Final arrangements have been entrusted to the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Town of Frankfort, Ilion, NY (315) 894-8000. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com.