James F. Salanger

James F. Salanger III, 61, of Fairmount, died peacefully Thursday at home surrounded by his loving family. Born and raised in Camillus, he attended Holy Family School and graduated from West Genesee High School in 1970. As a child, Jim studied Irish step dancing and won the coveted first place Irish jig in 1965. Graduating in 1974 from Le Moyne College, he earned a B.S. in Industrial Relations. He was particularly proud that he scored the first goal in the history of Le Moyne College Club Hockey from the blue line position, right wing. Jim was employed by Wells Fargo, where he served as Sr. Vice President, Investment Officer. A dedicated public servant, he proudly represented the people in the Town of Camillus as councilman from the fourth ward for 21 years. Jim died in office. He enjoyed spending time on Cape Cod and boating with his wife and friends on Cayuga Lake. He served as commander and executive officer of the United States Power Squadron based in Union Springs. A member of the Camillus Elks, Knights of Columbus and Ancient Order of Hibernians, he had the honor of singing with the Tom Dooley Choraliers at the White House in 1976. He enjoyed good humor and camaraderie, family get-togethers, the gathering of friends and hearty laughter. He loved when humor built on humor and laughter spilled over again. Jim will be dearly missed by those whose lives he brought joy to. The warmth of his smile and sound of his laugh will remain in the hearts of many. Jim married his beautiful wife and best friend, Christine Hanley, in 1977 in St. Patrick's Church on Tipperary Hill. She survives him along with their wonderful children, Elizabeth (Michael) Ponza, Margaret, James and Patrick Salanger; and precious grandson, Dylan Ponza, all of Syracuse. Jim was predeceased by his father, James F. Salanger Jr., in 1993. Other family members mourning his loss include, his mother, Dolores of Fairmount; sisters, Terry (Thomas) Tamayo of Wickford, RI, Bridget (Ray Eckel) of Dennis, MA, Liza (Dick) Lowery and Maggie (Michael) Barrett, both of Syracuse; brothers, Stephen of Syracuse and Matthew (Mary Ellen) of Binghamton; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. Relatives and friends may call Monday, March 31 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, April 1 at 10 a.m. in Holy Family Church. Jim will be laid to rest in Greenlawn Cemetery, Warners. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Town of Camillus, c/o James F. Salanger III Fund, 4600 W. Genesee St., Syracuse, NY 13219 or to Hospice of CNY, 990 Seventh North St., Liverpool, NY 13088.