For a number of years I played golf with Jim at the PGA course in Palm Beach Gardens, where  he was a fitness instructor in the winter time.My daughter and husband lived in the PGA complex, as well as his girlfriend Linda.My wife Barb and I used to visit my daughter there, each winter.We had a great time going out to dinner with them,and also hosting a diner at my daughters place .RIP Jim,and I will keep you in my prayers . Don Braun

Mr Calandra, a gym teacher and coach to so many, myself included, at Williamsville North, one who did not shy away from pushing us to be our best. He did just that for me when he introduced me to a developmentally delayed student who was significantly overweight and asked if instead of gym class, would I like to train her? He opened the doors for me to special education, a door that has led to 33 years of teaching and a career I love. Thanks, Mr. C. Much more than that, though, Mr. Calandra was a best friend to my dad, someone whose beaming, bright smile lit up the house as he entered with a booming, "Coach" for my dad and hugs for all of us. He always asked about our lives, included us in his and never missed a chance to show us he loved us all. I still have an Indian head nickel that he 'let me keep' from an old slot machine at his mom's he welcomed us to play with! Mr. Calandra's friendship was a gift to my dad, golf trips, softball games, Williamsville North, family occasions. Theirs was a friendship of love that taught us all what it truly means to be bonded. I will always remember you, Mr. C, for your heart of gold and natural ability to make us all feel loved. You will be sorely missed but lovingly remembered always.

JIm,
You were the best friend anyone could have. I and my family were so very lucky that you happened in our lifetime. You will be in my prayers always. Peace, COACH, until we meet again.

I had the pleasure of being on the same charter faculty with Jimmy at Williamsville East High School back in the late 70’s and early 80’s. He was one of those no-nonsense educators whose teams were fundamentally sound and successful, year in and year out, and represented the highest standards for himself and his student-athletes. East has had more than its share of outstanding teams over its 50-plus years of existence, but it can thank coaches like Jimmy who set the tone right out of the gate. I was lucky to have known him and wish to express my wife Linda’s and my condolences to his family and his many friends.

Jim-On behalf of all the people you inspired and lifted up as an atheletic coach in wrestling & football at Williamsville North High School; you are in all our hearts in eternity! You were an absolute rock for me in 1972 when  my mother passed away as you came along side me and lifted me up to continue on wrestling & training for which I will live with me in eternity! You were a father to me and am forever grateful!! I look forward to seeing you on the other side. Love You-RIP Jim !
Mike Little

We had some great golf trips,  with a bunch of great friends. Were going to miss you Jim.

Frank W

For several years, Coach Calandra worked with our team from New York, thanks to Mr. Luddy who spoke so highly of Coach. After five minutes of our first meeting, I saw why. Jim was vivacious with such a zest for life and it rubbed off on all around him. His energy, his kindness and most of all his welcoming nature made every player and coach we traveled with, walk away feeling great; it was not because of the workout session but because he helped everyone see the world with the love which he shared.

I was so sad to learn of Mr. Calandra’s passing.  He’s been a big part of our family, since he and my dad have been best friends forever!  
I have so many memories of him- from watching him and Dad play softball and coach together,  him bringing us Lifesavers candy books each Christmas, dancing at my wedding, etc.  Each memory is special and he will be missed.  Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Jimmy  was a wonderful man. He cared so much about people, their well-being and good health! We were neighbors in Ironwood and when my husband was ill, Jimmy would come visit, cheer him up, they would talk football, and Frank always felt better because of his visit. Jimmy followed my grandson‘s football career, went to games, and always was so positive and encouraging. Always a friendly smile and  laugh, especially when we joked, there’s nothing a good bowl of pasta wouldn’t cure! Prayers of comfort to Linda, who made his world happy, according to him, and to his family. He will be missed.

My deepest condolences to Jimmy’s family and friends.  Deeply saddened.  I had the pleasure of meeting Jimmy many years ago through his beautiful mom, “Babe,” as she and my grandma, Flora Cianciosi Nogaro, were lifelong friends and paisans from the same town in Italy.  More importantly, they were members of the “Pandora Circle,” a group of Italian childhood friends, who gathered monthly for probably 70 plus years.

Jimmy was a terrific guy, who was always so upbeat and happy.  He and my dad, Nick, also go way back, and we had such a nice chat together last summer at Giancarlo’s Restaurant.
Please know that I’m thinking of you all at this sad time.  God bless Jimmy and may he rest in peace.

Warm Regards ❤️

I am so sorry for the family and also for all of us who knew Jim. He was such a great guy! He was my personal trainer here in FL for the last 3 years and I called him in early June to catch up. He sounded so upbeat so I am shocked at his passing. Knowing him has made all our lives a little bit better for knowing him.

Little did l know when you came to say good bye to my husband Sonny only eight month’s ago that three car show men would be gone . We were all jealous how much you did for your Linda and your friend’s, pretty soon you’ll have all your car friend’s with you hopefully one of you will wear your damn hearing aid’s . We were glad we had many great years we all shared. Rest in peace . My love to you and Linda🦋🦋Bernadette💝💝

I am so sorry to hear of this Jimmy was a very good man with a big heart 
This is a big loss 
It seemed so sudden 
Jimmy was my personal trainer for more than 15 years He helped me in so many ways with my physical fitness, with my golf game and helped me through recovery from shoulder surgery 
For the last 10 years I’ve sponsored my high school golf team when they traveled to Florida for practice and preparation for the golf season 
Jimmy was always there for me and volunteered his time to help the kids and teach them special exercises for golfers . He dedicated hours of his time and helped the kids and encouraged them and helped them
Improve as golfers and as young men in life 

Jimmy loved Buffalo and all their sports teams , especially Buffalo Bills
Jimmy played a lot of golf down here in Florida and had many friends 
He was a special person and he will be missed

OBITUARY

James A. Calandra

March 21, 1947 – July 23, 2026

Perna, Dengler, Roberts Funeral Home

Show your support

Send Flowers

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services

Memorial Visitation