Mr. James “Jim” Gaetano, 81 of Westmoreland, passed away on Friday, August 21, 2026, at his home, following a brief illness, with his loving family by his side.

     Jim was born in Utica on December 3, 1944, the son of the late Frank and Ethel Gaetano. He was raised in Utica and was a graduate of Proctor High School. He furthered his education at Mohawk Valley Community College. In 1963, Jim was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Pat Otto. Together, they shared a loving and devoted union of 63 years. Jim enjoyed a long and successful career, holding several management positions before retiring from ConMed, where he served as superintendent of the company’s Rome division. A true outdoorsman, Jim had a special love for fishing. He and Pat could often be found spending their weekends on Oneida Lake, where they eventually purchased their dream home. Jim especially cherished being able to fish each evening after work and enjoyed the beautiful sunsets over the lake. After moving to Westmoreland, Jim could often be found tending to his lawn on his riding mower or enjoying a walk with his canine companion, Mad Max. He also enjoyed playing basketball and softball in his younger years and was a devoted fan of the New York Yankees. Jim shared a special bond with each of his cherished grandchildren, creating many wonderful memories together. He held a particularly special connection with his oldest grandson, David, with whom he shared his love of fishing and boating.

     Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Pat; his loving children, Janet (Pete) Desens of New Hartford and John (Char Benhoff) Gaetano of North Utica; his cherished grandchildren, David Desens of Utica, Joe (Tiana) Desens of Shrewsbury, MA, Matt (Britanny Jones) Desens of York, PA and Mike (Kate) Gaetano of North Utica and his adored great grandchildren, Emma Gaetano, Madison Desens and Charlie Mae Jones. Also surviving are his brothers, Frank (Pattie) Gaetano and Chuck (Mary) Gaetano; his sister, Dianne (Dr. Stas) Demson; and his sister-in-law Peg (Dr. David) Crowell, as well as nieces, nephews and his canine companion, Mad Max.

     In keeping with Jim’s wishes, there is no visitation or services. Those wishing to honor Jim’s memory, please kindly consider a donation to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 4277 Middle Settlement Rd., New Hartford, NY 13413 or the Humane Society of Rome, 6247 Lamphear Rd., Rome, NY 13440.

   Jim’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Chris, Heather, and Jessica of Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc.  for the wonderful care, compassion, and kindness they provided to Jim. A special thank you is also extended to the members of the Westmoreland Fire Department for the many times they came to Jim’s assistance.

     Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Heintz Funeral Service, Inc., North Utica.