James Benjamin Via

James Benjamin Via, 93, of Maple Shade Drive, Marietta, died at 3:20 PM on Tuesday, November 30, 2010 at the Arbors of Marietta.

He was born December 9,l9l7 in Marietta to James W. and Mariam Masters Via. Jim entered Marietta College and, in his junior year, was drafted into the U.S. Army during World War II. After serving in field hospitals in Europe for 4 ½ years, he returned to Marietta and married Virginia Ruth Drum on October 5,1947. He graduated with a BS degree from Marietta College in1947 and did post-graduate work at Ohio University. He worked as a Product Engineer at B.F. Goodrich from 1947 until his retirement in 1980. Jim enjoyed fishing, collecting and selling antiques, reading and travel.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jinny, one son, James Mark Via, and one daughter, Vicki Dempsey (John) of Marietta.

He was preceded in death by his parents and by his sister Clara Edgar (Clyde) of Marietta. There will be no visitation or service for the public. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Washington County Humane Society.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Arbors and particularly Jennifer and Cathy on the 3rd floor, as well as, the Marietta Home Heath and Hospice for Jim’s great care.

McClure-Schafer-Lankford Funeral Home is assisting the family.