Jim DiPaola

James Christopher DiPaola (aka Dog, King) age 61, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026. While his death marks the conclusion of a courageous eight-and-a-half-year battle with cancer, Jim never let it define him. His legacy will not be that of disease, but of the love, laughter, generosity, and strength he demonstrated throughout the course of his life.

Jim was the fifth child of Sam and Jeanne DiPaola, growing up in Syracuse, NY (“the center of the universe”) alongside his brothers and sisters: Marlene (Mark) Sierotnik, Stephan (Patti) DiPaola, Peter (Lee) DiPaola, John (Lisa) DiPaola, Mary (Ken) Bleskoski, Patricia (Michael) Vercillo and David (Kim) DiPaola. From childhood, he was nothing short of magnetic, forging some of the first of many lifelong friendships at St. Charles Grammar School and Christian Brothers Academy in Syracuse.

While his heart (and college sports allegiance) remained in Syracuse, Jim moved to Southern California in his 20s. He was a longtime resident of Redondo Beach, where he served as President of South Redondo Little League, volunteered to run P.E. at Beryl Heights Elementary School and was on a first-name basis with every employee at his local Von’s. Remembering people's names was important to him. He said people feel seen when you know their name. Jim’s kindness and devotion to others cast a wide net.

No one felt this impact more than his family. Jim is survived by his wife of thirty years, Kathleen Reighter-DiPaola, and his children, Nicklaus (28) and Elise (25). He always put their needs ahead of his own and loved them without reservation. We are confident his dog, Lilo, is by his side again. She was his shadow and constant companion after many chemo treatments.

Jim also had a large number of nieces and nephews, many of whom have now had children of their own. Their "Uncle Jimmy" was very proud of them and always enjoyed hearing about their latest accomplishments.

Jim loved to golf with his friends. He cherished the fresh air, movement, and camaraderie that sports provided, especially as his physical health declined. His knowledge of sports was encyclopedic and his passion infectious.

Even so, his friends and family were the most treasured parts of his life, and he will be dearly missed.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the City of Hope or the animal rescue group of your choice.