Obituary of James J. Dugan

Obituary: James J. Dugan

Date of Birth: May 2, 1934

Date of Death: August 24, 2024

James J. Dugan (Jim), 90, passed away on Saturday, August 24, 2024, in his home, surrounded by his loving family.  Jim was born May 2, 1934, on Staten Island, NY in Graniteville to James and Catherine (Hart) Dugan. James attended Blessed Sacrament grammar school and McKee Vocational High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1952 and served aboard the USS Missouri during the Korean War. During his service he was also stationed aboard the USS Oriskany and the USS Hancock.

James met the love of his life, Mary Gambardella, at the evening center for teenagers at PS 44 in Mariners Harbor.  Jim and Mary wed in 1956 at Saint Michael’s RC Church (Mariners Harbor) and celebrated 67 years of marriage. 

A New York City Firefighter for 33 years, Jim began his career at Engine Company 32 on Beekman Street in Manhattan and remained at this house for 10 years until it was closed. He was then assigned to Staten Island’s Engine Company 161 in South Beach and remained a “Beachboy” until retirement. After his retirement in 1995, Jim worked as an inspector for the former Staten Island Savings Bank.

Jim is a founding member of the Granite Athletic Club (Port Richmond) and served as president for several terms. During the club’s early years, Jim played football for this organization. He was also an avid softball player, playing for Granite A.C., the SI Baseball & Softball Old Timers Association, and for many other Staten Island softball teams.

The New York Yankees were Jim’s favorite team. He cheered them on while competing with Mary, whose favorite team is the New York Mets. Jim and Mary enjoyed trips to Atlantic City, Hawaii, Canada, Los Vegas, Florida, and the Caribbean. They enjoyed their walks in Clove Lakes Park and trips to the SI Zoo with the grandchildren.

Jim was a member of the Retired Firefighters Association, Fire Department Emerald Society, Ancient Order of Hibernians, Veterans of Foreign Wars # 7172 (Westerleigh), and St. Teresa of the Infant Jesus RC Church Holy Name Society.

He is survived by his wife Mary, daughter Debra Fisher (John) and son Frank Dugan (Joan). Jim was predeceased by a son, James Dugan (2009), who he is now with on the next path of his journey. Jim was a loving grandfather to Nicole, Kathryn, Megan, Kristin, Cara, and Keri. They were the world to him, and he was the loving Pop Pop who they adored.

Jim is survived by his sister Kathy Altieri, brothers Charles (Regina) and Matthew (Ruth) Dugan and sister-in-law Johanna Marone. Surviving also are his loving Nephews and Niece and their families. Jim was blessed with many good friends throughout his lifetime.

Jim will be dearly missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the:

Granite Athletic Club, please email them at the address below for donation information.

 Graniteac716@gmail.com

Fire Family Transport

www.firefamilytransport.org

Tunnel to Towers Foundation

www.T2T.com

www.t2t.org

Family and friends may visit the Matthew Funeral Home on Wednesday 8/28 from 2-4 and 7-9PM.  Funeral Departing from the funeral home at 10AM.  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Teresa’s Church, Victory Blvd at 10:45am.