James D. La Via

James D. La Via 73, 1016 Forest St., Wausau, died Friday May 28, 2004 under the care of Comfort Care and Hospice Services at Community Health Care Wausau Hospital. He was born October 10, 1931 in Des Moines, Iowa, son of the late Frank and Alice (Anderson) La Via. On April 26, 1952 he married Lorraine Janik in Chicago, Ill. She preceded him in death July 24, 2000. Prior to his retirement, James had been employed at Midwest Finishers in Chicago. James and Lorraine were active in the summer months selling crafts at various shows and spent their winter months in Courtside, Ariz. He was a Veteran of the US Army serving in Korea. Survivors include a daughter, Dawn (Mark Klein) La Via, Wausau, four sons, Rodney (Mary Ellen) La Via, Elmwood Park, Ill., Mario (Annette) La Via, Glendale Heights, Ill., Tony La Via, Wausau, Dominic (JoAnne) La Via, Aurora, Ill., three grandchildren, Vincent, Joey and Tommy, two sisters, Cyn O'Brien, Country Club Hills, Ill., Eloise La Via, Coloma and one brother, Jack La Via, Coloma. Besides his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a brother, Joseph La Via. Private family services were held. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences at www.petersonkraemer.com