James Robert Maggio

James Robert Maggio, 57, Austin, passed away on Monday, October 10, 2016. He is survived by his loving wife, Sylvia H. Maggio; son Nicholas James and wife Bennett, daughter Caitlin Grace; father Paul S. Maggio; sisters Paula M. Perry and Patti M. Shannon, brother Jon Mark Maggio; eleven nephews and two nieces; many relatives and his beloved dog Maverick. He is preceded in death by his mother Mary W. Maggio.

Born Nov. 16, 1958 in Chicago, Illinois, Jim moved with his family to Houston, TX in 1975. He graduated from Klein High School where he played baseball and was a baritone player in the band. This is where he met his best friend and future wife, Sylvia. He graduated from Texas Tech University with a B.S. in Geology in 1982 and moved back to begin his career during one of the most tumultuous times in the energy industry. On Nov. 27, 1982 he and Sylvia married. In December 1984 they made the best decision of their lives and moved to Austin, Texas. Here they established their respective careers, made lifelong friends and began their family.

Jim left his dream of a career in geology and forged a new career in computer science. He joined the TNRCC and developed a specialty in the field of laboratory software. This led to a long career with PerkinElmer, Inc. and most recently LabWare, Inc. Jim was known for his hard work, complete commitment to every project and a devotion to perfection on behalf of his clients.

Jim was a man with a loving and generous heart. He would help any friend or family member in need. He never forgot his early teenage jobs working in the kitchens of restaurants and often surprised many a waitstaff with tips as large as the bill. He encouraged his children and his wife to be brave, and to care for others. Jim's generosity, compassion and love was a result of his faith. Raised in the Catholic Church, Jim joined the Presbyterian Church with Sylvia in 1982. He held his convictions quietly and privately, but his generous actions were the evidence of his strong faith.

But it was his family life to which Jim devoted his passion and energy most. While his work dictated that he travel often for long periods, he was never out of touch and his larger than life presence was always felt by his children and wife. He made every effort to be home on the weekends to help with school projects, take care of every chore and every need. There wasn't anything he couldn't fix or figure out. But, it was Nicholas and Caitlin's soccer games that were the highlight of his weekends. A passionate (often vocal) fan, he took great pride and joy in watching them on the field of play. There was nothing he loved more—except teaching them to ski.

Jim loved the mountains and often reminisced about his summers spent in Colorado during geology field camp. The cold, brisk air and stunning rock formations fascinated him his whole life. He passed that love to his children, Nicholas and Caitlin, and for over 20 years they enjoyed family vacations skiing in Vail, Colorado. He was a devoted conservationist, especially with regard to the Rocky Mountains and our National Parks.

We would like to thank the doctors and staff at St. David's South Austin Hospital and Travis County EMS for their valiant efforts and compassionate care.

Visitation will be held at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home (N. Lamar Blvd.) on Thursday, October 13th from 6-8pm. Services to be held at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Friday, October 14th at 1:30pm. Interment at Austin Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Central Texas Food Bank, Vail Interfaith Chapel or the organization of your choice.