James Thomas Zukoski entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior in peace, free from pain and surrounded by love on November 19th, 2025.  His family is grateful they were able to celebrate his birthday with him shortly before his passing.

His family takes comfort in knowing that his body, once burdened with illness, is now whole, and that he rejoices in new life with the Lord.

James was born November 9, 1956 in Rochester, New York to Frederick H. Zukoski and Ruth Bernadette (Yatteau) Zukoski, the youngest of their children. 

Jim is remembered for his humor. He loved any dad joke. Good or bad. His puns became a trademark among family and friends, a small joy that he could share with others. 

His kindness, presence, and quiet strength shaped the lives around him in lasting ways.

He worked for many years in Information Technology as a Senior Computer Programmer Analyst at RIT. Outside of his work, he found joy in volunteering at Wheatland Community Church in sound tech, music, and gardening, but most of all in being surrounded by his family and friends.

Jim is predeceased by his parents; his brother, John “Jay” Zukoski; and sisters, Anne Zukoski and Cecilia Zukoski.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Janice, and by his children and grandchildren: Todd (Lori) Schojan and their children Nathan, Abigail, and Benjamin; Jacob (Trista) Zukoski and their son Thomas; Jacquelyn (Nicholas) Jacobs; Jeffery Zukoski; Jessa (Cory) DioGuardi; and Jade Zukoski.

He is also survived by his siblings: Paul Zukoski; Bernadette “Sis” Hollenbeck; Peter Zukoski; Mary Kielkowicz; Joseph Zukoski; Ruth Landry; SadaNam Singh Khalsa; Christine Schultz; and a great multitude of cousins, nieces, and nephews.

In the midst of their grief, his family leans on scripture: 

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” –2 Timothy 4:7

“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.” –Matthew 25:21

A Celebration of Life is planned for 1:00–4:00pm, Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Wheatland Community Church (6746 E River Rd, Rush, NY 14543), where family and friends will gather to celebrate his life and thank God for the many years they were blessed to share with him. Doors open at 12:45pm and the service starts at 1:00pm. 

Jim’s laughter, warmth, and love live on in all who knew him. His family rests in the promise of Christ’s peace and eternal hope.

In lieu of flowers, please bring memories and dad jokes to share or help Janice with Jim’s medical bills.

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