James “Jim” Gulalo peacefully passed away on July 31, surrounded by his loving family.

Jim was born to Helen and James Gulalo on July 28, 1949, in the Washington Heights area of Manhattan, N.Y. Jim and Lillian moved their family to Newtown, from their first home in Bayside, Queens, in 1983. Newtown was his home for over 40 years, but he was always first and foremost a New Yorker whenever asked.

Jim was a born entrepreneur and businessman starting several successful companies including Country Management Associates, Realty Solutions Center and finally Preferred Insurance Services in 1997. He had a wide range of diverse professions starting in New York City as a taxi driver, locksmith, property manager, real estate and insurance agent. His success in business can be attributed to his tenacity, hard work, providing true care and empathy to everyone he encountered.

Jim was a lifelong Rotarian and truly embraced their motto of “Service Above Self,” joining the organization in 1985. He served a term as president of Newtown Rotary from 1989 to 1990, achieving many accolades including two Paul Harris Fellow Awards and Frank Miles Award for his volunteer work. He played an influential part in the building of the original Fun Space at Dickinson Park. Lastly, he was most proud of his work as the club’s chairperson for the Dorothy Day Hospitality House, a soup kitchen and shelter in Danbury. Having been homeless himself for a short while at a young age, he felt it was paramount to give back and help others in need.

Jim's legacy is survived by his two sons, James and Daniel and daughters-in-law Krista and Diana. For his sons, he was their protector, sage, strength and “Best Dad in the Whole Wide World”. His family will remember him for his amazing work ethic, great advice, and ability to help in any situation. He had street smarts, always knew what to do and was always there. To everyone who knew him, he will be remembered as someone who truly cared about other people, had amazing stories of NYC and always wanted to help and talk for hours. Finally, his pride and joy, his two grandchildren, Olivia and James, who knew him as “Papou” will carry out his legacy of love, caring, hard work and play.

He is now with his Chummy Doll, the light of his life, remarkable wife and his eternal love Lillian.

Calling hours for Jim will be held Wednesday, August 7, from 4-7 pm, at Honan Funeral Home, located at 58 Main Street, Newtown. A Mass of Greek Orthodox Burial will be celebrated at 11 am on Thursday morning, August 8, at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, 30 Clapboard Ridge Road in Danbury. Interment will follow at Newtown Village Cemetery, 20 Elm Drive in Newtown. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made to The Dorothy Day Hospitality House in Danbury (dorothydaydanbury.org).