Mr. James A. Duffus, 58 of Frankfort passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday July 7, 2009. James was born in Montrose, Scotland on May 18, 1951 the son of James Duffus and the late Margaret (Sunter) Duffus. He was a graduate of Westmoreland High School, Class of 1969, later earned an Associates degree form Hudson Valley Community College and a Bachelors of Science degree from Plattsburgh State University. For many years he was employed as a counselor with NY State. After his college graduation he played semi-pro football in Watertown, NY and was of the Presbyterian faith. Mr. Duffus is survived by his father James Duffus of New Port Richey, FL; two sisters and one brother-in-law, Helen and Daniel Lynch of Schuyler and Lorraine Ross of Pittsburgh, PA; a nephew, Michael Lynch of Yorkville and a niece Melissa Foster and her husband John of Frankfort. Also surviving is Chad Charubin of Utica, who James raised from childhood and a canine companion, Onyx. Mr. Duffus' funeral will be held on Friday July 10, 2009 at 8:00 p.m. at the Heintz Funeral Home 408 Herkimer Rd., N. Utica. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family. Calling hours for family and friends are Friday from 4:00-8:00 p.m. prior to the service. Those wishing to make a donation in James' memory, please consider the Stevens-Swan Humane Society 5664 Horatio St. Utica NY 13502.