James Richard Giannini

1981 ∼ 2020

James R. Giannini, 39, of Kenosha, passed away unexpectedly in a motorcycle accident on Friday, July 31, 2020. Born in Kenosha on May 11, 1981, he was the son of Dominic J. and Mary (Tenuta) Giannini. A lifelong resident of Kenosha, attended Holy Rosary, Washington Jr. High, and Bradford High School, graduating in 1999. He pursued further education at Gateway Technical College. On October 8, 2017, he married Sonimarie Irizarry. Surviving include his wife, Sonimarie; his three daughters, Amiyah, Aliyyana, and Francesca; his parents, Dominic and Mary; his siblings, Luigi (Jessica), Dominic M. (Jessica), and John (Samantha) Giannini; mother-in-law; sisters-in-law; aunts; uncles; cousins, nieces, nephews; and many friends. As a youth, James was active in many sports, playing baseball, basketball, football, and golf. He enjoyed skateboarding and rollerblading as well. In high school, James developed a passion for billiards and eventually played on several winning teams. He was known to some as “Curly” on the Death Squad paintball team. Throughout the years he enjoyed shooting various guns and was an excellent small game hunter. He was also an avid catch and release fisherman. He enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson “lil smokey”. For 6 years he was employed as a parts driver for Jantz. In 2009, he began his career with the Kenosha Unified School District, where his strong work ethic led him to become the Head Custodian at Pleasant Prairie Elementary School. He was loved and adored by students and staff alike and made a profound impact on their lives. Later in life, he developed a passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which he shared with his twin brother John. He achieved the rank of purple belt under Professor Dave Rosenmarkle and was an instructor for the kids’ program at Veneration BJJ. He prided himself on his technical teaching and absolutely loved working with all the kids. He taught and coached many kids to victory on the mats, especially his two oldest daughters. James will forever be known as a jokester and could make anyone smile and laugh, often at the most inappropriate times. He was full of charisma and his quick wit was hard to match. Though he ran on “James’ time” he was the guy that regularly checked in on his friends and was there whenever you needed him. He was selfless and lived for making his family and friends happy. He cherished his wife and daughters. He made a lasting impression on everyone that was lucky enough to have known him and is going to be truly missed. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 5th, at Proko Funeral Home, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Prayers will be held at the funeral home on Thursday, August 6th, at 8:30 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at St. James Catholic Church, 5804 Sheridan Road, at 9:00 a.m. Interment will follow at St. George Cemetery. Due to the current health concerns and Wisconsin state statutes, masks are required, and social distancing is encouraged.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit & Sign James’ Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com

Condolences

Lisa Hochevar August 28, 2020
I am so sorry to hear about James. I worked with him at Kenosha Unified for a short time. He was a great listener and he could always bring a smile to your face. I don't think I ever saw him have a bad day. He was always talking about his family. James will be missed by everyone who was able to meet him. Sending my love and thoughts to his family.
Jodi Williams August 10, 2020
Our deepest love to your family, Jodi, Alan, Ben and Brodie Williams
Michael D. Gabron August 6, 2020
Dear Giannini family,So deeply saddened to learn of James’ accident and passing. My sincere condolences… James is such a great guy. I always admired and appreciated the way he could lighten the mood with a joke or comment, whether it be at Holy Rosary CCD or basketball practice, or later on in the halls at Bradford. That 1994-1995 championship season is probably the highlight of my youth, thanks to your family.I will be praying for all of you!Michael D. Gabron
Frank Mazzei August 5, 2020
My prayers and condolences to family and friends, my family has known his family for a long time, my father Vittorio Mazzei knew his grampa and his Dad, He was an awesome guy, even tho we hadn't seen each other all the time like when we were younger, he always stopped to talk to me wherever I was, especially when I worked at Wal-Mart or out riding cycles. RIP
Nick Kretchmer August 5, 2020
My daughter Alena is 10 and has special needs. James helped make the restrooms more accessible for my daughter and Alena specifically mentioned how he did that and how nice he was when she heard the unfortunate news. Deepest condolences from the Kretchmer’s. I didn’t know James, but know he had a big heart for what he did for my daughter and the way he did it...with generosity. Thank you!
Luigia Tenuta August 5, 2020
May God be with the entire Giannini family and may God grant James eternal peace.Cousin Mary and Dom, you are in my prayers in this time of profound sorrow.God bless,Cousin GeejLuigia TenutaColumbus, Ohio
Jane August 5, 2020
Mary,I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your son. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Take Care, Jane Caya-Grant Elementary
Teri and John Strange August 5, 2020
Our son Josh Strange graduated from Bradford with James and John. They were amazing young men than and even more now. We lived near them really appreciated the family. James and John helped us move into the house, always there for others even when they were 14 years old. God has a new Angel and we are praying for the family with all of our hearts 💕 God bless you at this difficult time, James will be missed by so many.
Jami Van Brocklin August 5, 2020
Our love and thoughts are sent to the Giannini family! James was such a beautiful soul. We adored him. We met him through Veneration BJJ. He was the sweetest man, and I am so glad that we got to be friends with him over the past few years. He is deeply missed. - Van Brocklin family
Meghan Schroeder August 4, 2020
Godfathers
Bruce Parsons August 4, 2020
My deepest condolences Dom to you and your family may you all be blessed at this sad time.
David Schripsema August 4, 2020
Dom and Mary you have my deepest sympathy for you loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. David Schripsema
Bob & Pat Oldani August 4, 2020
Mary, Dom and all your family, It pains us to have to send these condolences for the loss of James. We have such fond memories of him; such a fun loving young boy. His smile and great personality was contagious He continued to carry that on as a wonderful man. May the love and support of all those around you help to bring you peace. Bob & Pat Oldani
Kim Sellers August 4, 2020
Our deepest condolences to your family. Robert and Kim Sellers
Marge Jarvey August 4, 2020
Very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Jill Schutzen August 4, 2020
Words cannot express our sorrow for your loss. Please know that I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers.Rest in peace, James.Jill, Bill, and Will Schutzen
Anne August 4, 2020
Dear Giannini Family - my prayers are with your family. I was saddened to hear the loss of your beloved son/brother/husband/father. Your family always radiated love and joy when we were kids growing up. The bond between the Giannini brothers was strong and obvious to all who met them.
Barb Grevenow August 4, 2020
Mary, Dom, and boys: We are heartsick to hear of James’ death. We pray that you may find comfort and peace in the coming days from your memories of your incredible son. You are all in our prayers during this unspeakably difficult time. Barb and Jerry Grevenow
Heather Schweitzer Hansen August 3, 2020
Mary , Dom and family,We are so very sorry for you loss. You are in our prayers now and the day ahead. With heartfelt sympathy, Kurt, Heather, and Heath Hansen
Anne Kuhl August 3, 2020
There are no words for such an unimaginable loss! It has been such a joy in my life to know such a beautiful man! James was a shining light in the world, still is and always will be! There are so many precious memories! The Giannini family is in my thoughts, prayers and heart!