Jim Craver lived a wonderful life.

Born Monday, August. 1, 1949, to the late Walter and Bernadine Craver, Jim spent most of his childhood at his family's home on Dorothy Street in Minoa. After putting himself through Catholic school at St. John the Evangelist in Syracuse, Jim earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Akron. Soon after, he moved back to Syracuse and started what would become a 35-year career in law enforcement working his way up the ranks to supervisor with the Onondaga County Probation Department. Many may also remember Jim from his side gig at Clay Wine & Spirits or as the holiday doorman at Lennon's Jewelers.

In retirement Jim enjoyed many things; church, Panera, his gardens, a round of golf, nice glass of wine, smooth jazz; but nothing more than Sunday dinners with his family. Jim was an excellent chef, specializing in fine cuts of grilled meat and German cuisine. In 2016, his blissful retirement was interrupted by a leukemia diagnosis. Jim fought tirelessly for six and a half years giving it absolutely everything he had.  All while remaining steadfast in his faith and cherishing every moment with those around him. On Sunday, his favorite day of the week, Jim passed quietly into the night with family by his side. He was 73.

Jim's kind and generous spirit is carried on by the love of his life, wife of 47 years, Susan Patterson Craver of Liverpool and his pride and joy, his children; son Matthew (Marissa) Craver of Westvale, and daughter Emily (James) Caggy of Ashburn, Va. It's truly hard to put into words how much Jim loved and adored his five smart, silly, sweet and sometimes sassy grandchildren; Olive, Henry, Alexander, Benjamin and Elisabeth. They affectionately referred to him as Gee (pronounced like the Karate outfit) and Jimmy Boy.

Jim was so loved and will be so missed by so many, including his oldest brother Lee Craver (Ivy), several nieces and nephews, the church peeps, his golf buddies and more friends than could possibly be mentioned here. Jim's younger brother, Mickey, passed in 2020.

If you measure success in strength of faith, family and friendships, Jim Craver was the richest man in town.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, March 11, 2023 at 11:00 am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 3494 State Route 31, Baldwinsville, NY 13027.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 3494 State Route 31, Baldwinsville, NY 13027.

Please sign the funeral home on-line guestbook for James to express your condolences to his family.