Jim Farnorotto
James J. Farnorotto, 66, of Wappingers Falls, a co-owner of The Gift Hut on Main Street in Cold Spring, died Nov. 13, 2019, at his home.
Born Dec. 20, 1952, in Bayshore, New York, he was the son of James and Mildred (Rasi) Farnorotto. Jim graduated from from John Jay High School and Dutchess Community College. He worked in Data Systems for Grumman for many years and most recently in marketing. He enjoyed woodworking and trapshooting.
On Sept. 10, 1977, he married Francine Merando at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Cold Spring.
Farnorotto was a former board member of the Cold Spring Area Chamber of Commerce. In an email, the organization wrote: “Jim was a beam of light, laughter, and positive energy on Main Street and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
“The Gift Hut will be closed while the family mourns the loss and makes preparations…. Flowercup Wine is collecting donations for flowers and food and there will be cardmaking stations at Cold Spring Coffeehouse, The Country Goose and Supplies for Creative Living from Friday to Sunday.” For those wishing to send a card, gift certificate, flowers or food to the family, contact Caitlin Chadwick for the mailing address by texting to 914-629-0068.
Read a profile of the couple and their store published in 2013.
Besides his wife of 42 years, Jim is survived by his daughter, Christina Castillo (Mario), his sister-in-law, Miriam Johnson, and his brother-in-law, Stephen Merando.
Friends may call on Monday, Nov. 18, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Clinton Funeral Home, 21 Parrott St., in Cold Spring. A funeral service will be held on Nov. 19, at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 1 Chestnut St., followed by a luncheon reception in the parish hall.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Legion George A. Casey Post 275, P.O Box 45, Cold Spring, NY 10516.
