James Conigliaro

"He was surrounded by a lot of love and nine siblings, whom he remained close with his whole life. He went on to marry Gissel, the love of his life, on March 26, 1983. They had three children, Kim (David), Dominick (Danielle) and James (Kristin), and nine beautiful grandchildren, Kayla, David, Neiko, Savannah, Ryleigh, Chase, Olivia, Lacey and Dominick, all of whom meant the world to him."

"He was a fierce advocate for those on his side while simultaneously - and somehow - being able to make genuine and heartfelt relationships with those who found themselves on the opposite side of the table. He brought that same genuineness, empathy and love to those closest to him. James lived a big, happy and abundant life, and he loved traveling and exploring new places with his wife, Gissel, whom he loved tremendously."

"James was a man who wanted to be at every event. You could always count on seeing him on the sidelines at all of his kids' and grandkids' sporting events, dance competitions, school events and celebrations. His greatest pride was his family, and his legacy will live on through the generations he loved so fiercely. James will be deeply missed, but his love, laughter and the way he made people feel will live on forever."

James grew up with nine siblings and remained close to them throughout his life. He married Gissel on March 26, 1983, and they raised three children: Kim (David), Dominick (Danielle) and James (Kristin). He was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren. He spent 40 years as a union representative for the Machinists Union, forming lifelong friendships and bettering the lives of thousands. He combined fierce advocacy with the ability to build genuine relationships across divides. He loved traveling with his wife, attending family events, and dining at Michael's Restaurant. Visitation was held Jan. 28–29 at Marine Park Funeral Home, 3024 Quentin Rd., and a Mass of Christian Burial was held Jan. 30 at St. Francis de Sales R.C. Church, 129-16 Rockaway Beach Blvd.

Read at Brooklyn Eagle