Obituary of Charles J. Craparo

Charles J. Craparo, 76, passed away on Sunday, November 11, 2018 in Binghamton, NY, surrounded by his loving family. Charlie was born on September 30, 1942 in Carbondale, PA, son of Joseph and Louise Cerra Craparo. He was a teacher and Principal for Broome-Tioga BOCES for more than 35 years. During that time, he touched the hearts and lives of countless teachers, students, and families. Charlie's mission was to always put the well-being, happiness and welfare of his students first, and to make sure those around him did the same. He spent his free moments with his kids and grandkids, coaching all of their teams and cheering from the bleachers, or having breakfast or lunch with his crew. Charlie is survived by his wife and partner of 51 years, Joan; his son, Joseph Craparo and his partner Kim Ledig; his daughter and son-in-law, Ann Craparo and Chuck Kovalchick; his daughter Therese Craparo and her partner Jeremy Booth; his son and daughter-in-law Charles and Michele Craparo; his sister and brother-in-law, Josephine ("Toots") and Paul Gill; his grandchildren, Sarah Kovalchick, Tim Kovalchick, Christian Craparo, William Craparo, Lily Craparo, and Scarlet Barnes who love their "Papa Dude" very much; his niece Nancy Gill; his niece and her husband, Theresa and Dr. Nick Barna, and their children Nick and Laura Barna; as well as numerous cousins, and his Aunt Lucy Craparo and Uncle Basil Maletich. Those who knew Charlie best know that he loved his Joanie, his kids, his grandkids, his friends, his students, his teachers and his cheese. His poems memorializing key life events, from birthdays to anniversaries to graduations to reunions will be a perpetual reminder of his big heart, creativity, generosity, and thoughtfulness. He will be forever in our hearts and minds. A Funeral Mass will be offered at SS. Cyril and Methodius Church, Clinton Street, Binghamton, Saturday at 9:30 a.m. Burial will be in Slovak Catholic Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the J.A. McCormack Sons Funeral Home, 141 Main Street, Binghamton, Friday from 4 to 7 p.m.