James Silvio Massacci

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Laryngectomy Association. James Silvio Massacci Sr. died of natural causes on January 23, 2002. He was 66 years old. Mr. Massacci was born and raised in Chicago Heights, Illinois on August 17, 1935. He was a graduate of Bloom Township High School. In 1958, he married his childhood sweetheart JoAnn Formentini. The union blessed them with two children, James Jr. and Michele. He worked as an inspector at Inland Steele Co. (in Chicago Heights, IL) but his background interest in the restaurant/bar business eventually drove the course of his career. His experience began when he went to work with his father McGraw ''Mac'' at the family bowling alley and night club, the Pla Bowl Lounge in Calumet City, IL. It was there and at Savoia's Restaurant that he gained experience as a bartender and and entertainment coordinator. His expertise earned him the position as General Manager for Al Hirt, and in 1969 he and his family relocated to Louisiana to run the Al Hirt Club - a music club in New Orleans. He later assisted Sonny Oschner at world famous Pat O'Brien's. In 1970, he decided to open his own club called the Cellar Bar, and in 1971 he founded and opened the Jimani Restaurant and Lounge on Charters Street in New Orleans where it still remains. He retired in 1992. Survivors include his son, James S. Massacci Jr.; a daughter Michele Massacci Heckmann; a brother, Mario Massacci; and 3 grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Meghan, & Lauren Heckmann. A memorial service will be held in New Orleans. Details will be announced.