James Guzzo

In loving memory of James Guzzo, who peacefully departed this world at the age of 90 on November 8, 2023. Born on March 7, 1933, in Streator, Illinois, to Italian immigrants Domenic and Antonia Lena Guzzo, Jim was a cherished presence in the lives of many. Raised alongside four brothers and three sisters, he developed a strong foundation of family values that would shape his remarkable journey. Jim's youthful energy led him to excel as a letterman in both track and football at Rock Island High School in Illinois. His dedication and prowess extended to the boxing ring, where he clinched the title of the 1952 135-pound Golden Glove Champion. Following this, Jim served his country in the U.S. Army for two years. In 1962, Jim married his beloved Sharon, and together, with their family of three boys, they relocated to Sarasota, Florida in 1973. Upon his retirement in 2001, Jim owned and operated an automotive radiator and air conditioning business and was considered a pioneer in the industry by his peers. A testament to enduring love, Jim and Sharon celebrated 58 years of marriage until her passing in 2019. Jim is survived by his loving children: Brian Guzzo, Scott Guzzo, Rob Guzzo, all residing in Sarasota, Jeff Guzzo of Orlando, and Jim Guzzo of Colorado. His legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren: Melissa, Alex, Ryan, Brett, Nicholas, and great-grandchildren Rylen and Brooks. Jim was a man who found joy in life's simple pleasures and cherished his loved ones deeply. He will always be remembered for his love of family dinners and his personal favorite, homemade spaghetti and meatballs. He was a kind and caring father as well as a friend to everyone he met, and his legacy of warmth and compassion will live on. Services to honor Jim's life will be held on Tuesday, November 21, at 11:30 a.m. at The Main Worship Center of Sarasota Baptist Church, located at 7091 Proctor Rd. in Sarasota, Florida. He will be laid to rest at the Sarasota National Cemetery, surrounded by the love of his closest family members. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests contributions be sent to Senior Friendship Centers at 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota, FL 34236, or at www.friendshipcenters.org/donate-today/ in honor of Jim’s memory, continuing his legacy of kindness and compassion. Jim’s memory will forever be etched in our hearts, and his kindhearted spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

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James Guzzo

March 7, 1933 - November 8, 2023