James R. Paravati 1936 - 2016Beloved Insurance ManCLINTON - James R. "Jim" Paravati, 80, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2016, at the Cottages at Garden Grove, Cicero, with his loving family by his side.He was born on July 25, 1936, in Utica, NY, the son of the late James V. and Florence (Borselli) Paravati, and brother of the late Jean Marie Paravati Mercurio. James graduated from Proctor High School in 1953 and Bryant University, Rhode Island. His first job was at his parents' business, Blue Ribbon Dairy, Utica. James was also employed at H.J. Heintz as a Sales Rep, Sears Roebuck in sales, and completed his career as Sr. Account Agent with Allstate Insurance, a position he held for 34 years. James and his wife, Joan, traveled the world due to his success with Allstate. He received several awards with them over his career, including the Conference of Champions, honor ring, Life Millionaire, Top Sales Producer and Top Agent. James was a past member of the Elks Club of Utica, Men's Club and golf league, and was also an usher at St. Thomas Church. He volunteered as a tax aide for AARP. On September 7, 1957, James married the love of his life, Joan F. Lange. They just celebrated their 59th anniversary. They spent the last 17 winters in their home in Florida.James was very proud of his family and to have been able to be such an important part of their lives. He was most proud of his grandchildren and their achievements: Amanda E. Bane, R.N.B.S.N., Peds Hemo-ONC Golisano, James V. Paravati, Civil Engineer, and Kevin C. Bane, M. Ed.James is survived by his loving wife, Joan; four children, James F. (Kim) Paravati, Binghamton, NY, Judith A. (Michael) Pavese, Rock Hill, SC, Cynthia M. (Kevin P.) Bane, Cicero, and Stephen M. Paravati and family, New Hartford; brothers-in-law, Paul (Diane) Lange and Bill (Janet) Lange; sisters-in-law, Ruth Dennett, Joanne Lange, Louise (Stanley) Badger and Mary (Bob) Price; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. He was predeceased by his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, including Lawrence Mercurio and Richard Lange.James donated his body to the Anatomical Gift Program at SUNY Upstate Medical University. Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Friday from 4-7 p.m. at McGrath, Myslinski, Karboski & Nunn Funeral Directors, 470 French Rd., Utica. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. at St. Thomas Church, New Hartford.In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to Crouse Hospital Palliative Care, 736 Irving Ave., Syracuse, NY 13210 or Francis House, 108 Michaels Ave., Syracuse, NY 13208.James' family would like to give a special thanks to the nurses, doctors, staff and palliative care at Crouse Hospital, as well as the staff at the Cottages in Cicero, and a special thank you to Dr. J. Battaglia and Dr. M. Brodowski for the care and compassion shown to him.Messages of sympathy at www.nunnandmcgrath.com