Vincent "Jim" Luvera

Vincent J. “Jim” Luvera, formerly of Eagle Bay, NY, passed away on Wednesday, December 23, 2020.  During the past four years, Jim resided at the Masonic Care Community, in Utica. 

Jim was born on September 10, 1921, in Seminara, Province of Reggio Calabria, Italy.  He was the son of the late Carmen and Domenica (Bilardi) Luvera.

Jim came to the U.S. in 1930, was educated in Utica public schools, and served in the Civilian Conservation Corps.  He married his beloved Catherine “Kay” Marafioti  in 1954. Together, they owned and operated Kate’s Diner in Old Forge, NY, for many years. After retirement, Jim and Kay spent summers at their home on Fourth Lake, where they enjoyed the tranquility of the lake, the Adirondack Mountains and beautiful sunsets. They traveled to Wickenburg, Arizona and more recently to Boca Raton, Florida for the winter months.  After Kay’s death in 2011, Jim continued to commute between Boca Raton and Eagle Bay.  

In addition to Kay, Jim was predeceased by his sisters, Rose Luvera and Giovanna “Jenny” Maggio; his brothers-in-law, Frank Maggio and John Giruzzi; his nephew, Joseph Maggio; and his niece, Susan Giruzzi. 

Jim is survived by his devoted sister, Carmella Giruzzi.  He also is survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins, both here and in Canada.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jim’s family will honor him privately and he will be laid to rest beside his beloved Kay, in Resurrection Chapel Mausoleum.

During these socially difficult times, leaving a message of sympathy on our website, is always a great source of comfort to his family.

The family offers its heartfelt appreciation to all of Jim’s caregivers. Their patience and compassion under very difficult circumstances was remarkable. 

In memory of Jim, please consider donations to the Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 507 Kent Street, Utica, NY 13501 or at cabvi.org

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