Obituary of Charles R. Nojaim

Charles R. Nojaim, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and esteemed businessman, passed away peacefully in Syracuse, NY on May 19, 2024, at the age of 91. His passing marks the end of an era, leaving a legacy of love, commitment, and entrepreneurial spirit that will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

Born on May 31,1932, in Syracuse, Charles was the son of Lebanese immigrants who instilled in him the values of hard work, integrity, and family. He carried these principles throughout his life, becoming a pillar of the community and a beacon of reliability and kindness.

Charles met the love of his life, Patricia McSweeney, at St. Anthony’s of Padua, and they married in 1955. Their marriage, marked by profound love, spanned nearly seven decades. Together, they raised five children: Kathleen (Jim), Nancy, Richard (Lori), Paul (Daisy) and Daniel, who remember their father as a loving, supportive, and inspiring figure.

A devoted grandfather, Charlie took immense pride in all of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Christina, Chad (Alexis), Paul (Rachel), Jimmie (Heather), Kyle, Trisha (Chris), Anna, Jack, Adrianna, Carlos, Natalie; and great grandchildren Laila, Anthony, RJ, and Amari.

Charlie was predeceased by his wife, Pat, parents, Richard and Filippa and his brother, Alex.

In the business world, Charlie was a visionary leader and a dedicated professional. He took the reins of the family business, Nojaim Brothers Supermarket, in the 1950s, transforming it into a cornerstone of the community. Under his stewardship, the supermarket not only thrived but also became a place where customers were treated like family. Charlie carried on his parents’ legacy, ensuring that Richard and Filipa’s values of not just doing business with a community but being part of the community lived on. Nojaim Bros. was not just a store but a gathering place that brought people together, supported local initiatives, and provided a sense of belonging. Under the leadership of Charlie Nojaim, the store became a hub of community activity, fostering a sense of connection and support among residents. Nojaim Brothers was renowned for its dedication to community service, often participating and supporting community partners aimed at improving the well-being of the community. His dedication to the community was evident in every aspect of his work, and his impact will be felt for generations. 

Upon graduating Le Moyne College, Charlie served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He served as a Board Member of Sugar Mill Country Club as well as President of Bellevue Country Club, Chairman of the Draft Board, Co-Chairman of Rebuild Syracuse, Board Member NYS Food Merchants Association. He was a driving force that started an independent grocery movement in the Syracuse area; eventually these groups of stores were known as the “Hometown Group” and “The Neighborhood Markets.”

Beyond his professional life, Charlie was an avid golfer with a deep love for the game. He spent countless joyful hours on the courses of Bellevue, Sugar Mill, and Tuscarora, where his enthusiasm, skill, and camaraderie were well-known and admired. Charlie’s presence on and off the greens was a testament to his commitment to fostering community and friendship. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of his family, friends, and fellow golfers.

We would like to thank the caregivers: Audrey, Daniel, Rachel, Amy, Derek and Micki who took such great care of our dad.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 23, 2024 at 10am at the Edward J. Ryan & Son Funeral Home, 3180 Bellevue Ave. A calling hour will be held prior from 9 to 10am at the funeral home.  A celebration of life will be held after at Tuscarora Golf Club, where family and friends will gather to celebrate Charles's remarkable life. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Brady Social Enterprises, 307 Gifford St. Syracuse, NY 13204.

Charlie will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his community, and his faith. His life was a testament to the power of kindness, perseverance, and love. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the many lives he enriched.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.