James Farnkopf
James Farnkopf
James “Jimmy” Farnkopf, 63, of Apollo Beach, FL, passed away on July 12, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Riverview, surrounded by the family he cherished. His passing followed a courageous two year battle with ALS, during which he showed the same strength, humor and devotion that defined his life.
Born on December 7, 1962, in Newark, NJ, Jimmy was the beloved son of Muriel Turkenkopf and John Farnkopf. Jimmy spent most of his life in central New Jersey. He served his country in the US Navy from 1980 to 1983 aboard the USS John F. Kennedy aircraft carrier as a mechanical equipment repairman, an experience that shaped his discipline and resilience.
In 2016 he moved to Apollo Beach, FL, with his then-fiancé. In March 2025, after a nine year engagement filled with love, laughter, and partnership, he married Christine Costello, who remained steadfastly by his side. He is survived by his children, Christopher, Nicholas and Alyssa from his former marriage to Carol Kurak. He is also survived by his stepchildren, Thomas and Emily, and his adored grandson, Santiago.
Jimmy built a long and respected career as a heavy haul truck driver and dispatcher, ultimately retiring from Kimmins Contracting of Tampa in August 2025. Known for his reliability, work ethic and ability to connect with anyone he met, he left a lasting impression on coworkers and friends alike.
Outside of work, Jimmy found joy in planning day trips on his Harley, always choosing the scenic route and always searching for something new, interesting or unexpected. He was a family man at his core—showing up for his children in the exact ways they needed, offering guidance, humor and unconditional love.
A Celebration of Life was held at his home on August 1st, attended by more than 60 family members, friends and coworkers who gathered to honor the man who had touched their lives with generosity, loyalty and heart.
Jimmy’s ashes will be shared among his spouse, children and at a Military National Cemetery at a future date, ensuring his legacy remains rooted in both family and service.
In life and beyond, Jimmy remained profoundly generous. As an organ donor, he gifted his kidneys and liver, offering three others the chance to continue their journeys. Time will tell whether his recipients develop his signature preferences for Poland Spring water, Twizzlers and the Giants—a bit of humor he would have loved.
Jimmy will be remembered for his devotion to family, his adventurous spirit, and his unwavering kindness. His presence will be deeply missed, but the love he gave will continue to echo through the lives of all who knew him.
James “Jimmy” Farnkopf, 63, of Apollo Beach, FL, passed away on July 12, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Riverview, surrounded by the family he cherished. His passing followed a courageous two year battle with ALS, during which he showed the same strength, humor and devotion that defined his life.
Born on December 7, 1962, in Newark, NJ, Jimmy was the beloved son of Muriel Turkenkopf and John Farnkopf. Jimmy spent most of his life in central New Jersey. He served his country in the US Navy from 1980 to 1983 aboard the USS John F. Kennedy aircraft carrier as a mechanical equipment repairman, an experience that shaped his discipline and resilience.
In 2016 he moved to Apollo Beach, FL, with his then-fiancé. In March 2025, after a nine year engagement filled with love, laughter, and partnership, he married Christine Costello, who remained steadfastly by his side. He is survived by his children, Christopher, Nicholas and Alyssa from his former marriage to Carol Kurak. He is also survived by his stepchildren, Thomas and Emily, and his adored grandson, Santiago.
Jimmy built a long and respected career as a heavy haul truck driver and dispatcher, ultimately retiring from Kimmins Contracting of Tampa in August 2025. Known for his reliability, work ethic and ability to connect with anyone he met, he left a lasting impression on coworkers and friends alike.
Outside of work, Jimmy found joy in planning day trips on his Harley, always choosing the scenic route and always searching for something new, interesting or unexpected. He was a family man at his core—showing up for his children in the exact ways they needed, offering guidance, humor and unconditional love.
A Celebration of Life was held at his home on August 1st, attended by more than 60 family members, friends and coworkers who gathered to honor the man who had touched their lives with generosity, loyalty and heart.
Jimmy’s ashes will be shared among his spouse, children and at a Military National Cemetery at a future date, ensuring his legacy remains rooted in both family and service.
In life and beyond, Jimmy remained profoundly generous. As an organ donor, he gifted his kidneys and liver, offering three others the chance to continue their journeys. Time will tell whether his recipients develop his signature preferences for Poland Spring water, Twizzlers and the Giants—a bit of humor he would have loved.
Jimmy will be remembered for his devotion to family, his adventurous spirit, and his unwavering kindness. His presence will be deeply missed, but the love he gave will continue to echo through the lives of all who knew him.