James George Vanezalos

JAMES GEORGE VANEZALOS, 91, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2024. He was born on July 15, 1933, in Warwood, WV. Known for his impeccable style, James was always dressed to the T, a true reflection of his character. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and hard work. He was the third child of four born to George and Ethel Queses Vanezalos. James was a graduate of Warwood High School, Class of 1952, where he played on the football team for four years. Following his high school graduation, James served his country with honor in the United States Army during the Korean War. Known for his kindness and constant smile, James was a hard worker throughout his life. In his early years, he worked as a milkman, but the majority of his career was spent at Weirton Steel, where he was an oilman in the oil cellars, retiring after 31 years of service. When James walked out of the mill after a long day’s work, he did so with the pride and dignity of a soldier, never slumped over. A self-taught man, James also held a second job as a refrigeration and air conditioning repairman. On August 17, 1958, James married the love of his life, Mary Menezis, with whom he shared 66 beautiful years of marriage. Mary often joked that after ten years of marriage, she decided to keep him, as he was the only man she had ever dated. Their love was a testament to patience and devotion, and James was a true gentleman in every sense of the word. A born-again Christian, James loved Jesus with all his heart and soul. His faith was a guiding force throughout his life, and he was a member of the All Saints Greek Orthodox Church. In his free time, James found joy in building model airplanes and boats, and he also enjoyed painter by numbers. He was a member of the Weirton Steel 25 Year Club, VFW Post 2716, and the Weirton Senior Center. In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his brother Spiro and his two sisters, Ann Simatacoles and Mary Nicholas. He will be remembered with love by his devoted wife, Mary; his two loving sons, George J. (Terri) and Steve (Pam); and his cherished grandchildren, James, Alex (Courtney), Shelbie (James), Megan (Garrett), and great-granddaughter Avanna, who brought him immense joy. Private services were conducted. James was laid to rest at Chestnut Ridge Cemetery with military honors conducted by the American Legion Post 10 and the West Virginia National Guard. His family would like to thank Valley Hospice for all the love and care they provided in the last few month’s of his life. Share tributes at www.grecohertnick.com.