Jim was born in the Bronx, NY on September 5, 1938, the first of two children to Andrew and Louise (Grams) DeStefano. He earned a bachelor of science degree in biology from City College of New York, where he met his future wife, Josephine. He additionally earned a master’s degree in microbiology from C. W. Post. He served in the army and the army reserves and was honorably discharged in 1966. He worked as a microbiologist in the City Hospitals of New York, most notably Kings County Hospital and Metropolitan Hospital serving as Blood Bank Director and then Laboratory Manager.
While a teenager living in the Bronx he was introduced to fishing in Montauk. Surf casting and sport fishing remained a primary passion his entire life. It is a love he shared with his children and grandchildren and a few special fishing buddies. A talented artist and wood worker, Jim built beautiful furniture, carved a carousel horse, and carved and painted wooden decoys representing the many waterfowl that he enjoyed observing. Traveling was a large part of his life. Early years were spent driving all through the United States camping in a Volkswagen bus with his family. After retirement Jim and his wife visited Europe, Asia, and Africa among many trips. They experienced the Northern lights in Iceland together. Jim and Jo also spent countless hours on the road ensuring that they saw family spread throughout Maine, Georgia, Massachusetts, Missouri, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Tennessee and Florida. Their road trips took them to every state in the US (including Alaska!) except Hawaii.
Jim leaves behind his beloved wife of 55 years Josephine (Martinez) DeStefano, his daughter, Anita L. DeStefano of Kennebunk, ME, his son Andrew P. DeStefano and wife Anna DeStefano of Lawrenceville, GA. He was much loved Pop to four grandchildren, James W. DeStefano, Connor R. Johnson, Jamie L. Johnson, and Ryan C. Johnson. He also leaves his sister Angelina Mola and husband Frank Mola of New Jersey, and his sister-in-law Anita Martinez of New York. He was a loving uncle to Cathy Doyle, Joyce Novak, and Danny, Andrew and Steven Mola and their families. He loved being with them all.
Donations in his memory may be made to St. Mary’s Hospital for Children via:
St. Mary’s Foundation for Children
29-01 216th Street
Bayside, NY 11360
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