A native of Minneapolis, Minnesota, James served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and witnessed the raising of the flag at Iwo Jima from his ship, The USS Tolland. Upon returning from the war, James resumed his career with the U.S. Government at Fort Snelling, Minnesota. He married Nina Rosena (Rose) Rossi, on October 25, 1947. In 1952, the U.S. Government transferred James from Minneapolis to Washington, DC. The family resided in Adelphi, Maryland from 1952 to 1965 and in Beltsville (Calverton), Maryland from 1965 to 1984. Throughout these years, James shared his love of sports serving as a youth basketball, baseball, and bowling coach. James was a Minor League Scout for the Houston Astros. James was a distinguished Third Degree Honorary Life member of the Knights of Columbus, Prince Georges Council 2809. After retirement in 1984, James and Rose moved to Melbourne, Florida. His friends and family will remember him for his compassion, dedication to home and family, and the inspiration that always encouraged others to appreciate life's blessings and succeed based upon their interests and talents. His kindness, wit, and candor are imprinted in our hearts.
James is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 69 years, Nina Rosena (Rose) Rossi of Minneapolis, Minnesota; two sons, James Jr., and Louis Roy; one daughter, Anne; two granddaughters, Jacquelyn Pearo Allen (Kevin) and Nicole Pearo Taylor (David); their mother Elizabeth; and two great granddaughters Alexa (Jacquelyn & Kevin) and Isabelle (Nicole & David). Preceded in death by his beloved son, John.
Family will receive loved ones and friends at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Silver Spring, Maryland for a prayer service and final internment February 24, 2017.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18