James L. Hevia, Sr., 91, of Niagara Falls, NY, died on Wednesday February 23, 2011 at Schoellkopf Health Care Facility in Niagara Falls, NY. Born in Clarksburg, WV he was the son of the late Celestino and Luisa (Cabal) Hevia.


James came to Niagara Falls, NY as a child with his family. He attended local schools and graduated from Niagara Falls High School. During World War II he served in the United States Army Medical Corp and was stationed in the South Pacific from 1942 until his honorable discharge in 1946. On June 24, 1946 he married Rose M. (Critelli) Hevia at St. Joseph's Church in Niagara Falls, NY. Mrs. Hevia predeceased him on June 1, 1989. During the 1930's and 1940's, he worked at the former Lagomaggiore's Drug Store in Niagara Falls. He was later employed at the Carborundum Company in Niagara Falls, and retired as a Supervisor in 1981 after forty one years of service. James had a passion for painting and was a talented artist. He especially enjoyed working with oil paints, pen and ink, acrylics, water colors and stone art. Jim also enjoyed playing the harmonica.


Mr. Hevia is survived by two children, James L. (Judith) Hevia, Jr. of Chicago, IL and Celeste Johansen of Thibodaux, LA; two grandchildren, Laura (Tadd) Hebert and Christian Johansen, one great-granddaughter Madison Hebert, one step-great-granddaughter Justice Hebert, one sister Mary Lou (late Joseph) Korzak of Niagara Falls, NY and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins. He was also predeceased by one brother Joseph (late Fina) Hevia.


Friends may call on Friday from 6 – 9 p.m. at the M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY where funeral services will be held on Saturday February 26th at 11 a.m. with Rev. Duane R. Klizek officiating. Interment in St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Schoellkopf Health Care Facility 621 10th Street Niagara Falls, NY 14301.