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James Violi Obituary
Age 59, of Fairview, died at his residence very suddenly on Thursday, February 28, 2008. He was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., February 8, 1949. He was the son of the late Charles Frank and Edith Stidle Violi. He graduated from Fox Chapel High School and then joined the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and served as an MP in Thailand. He worked 8 years at Sears Roebuck Company, then was senior vice-president of The Appliance Store for 14 years, then was vice-president of purchasing for Rent Way for 10 years, and was currently the Director of Operations for John V. Schultz Company for the past five years. Jim was a huge Steelers fan and loved golf. He was a neat nick, prankster, and jokester. He was very creative and could do anything. He was very dedicated to everything he did. He was a family man and very devoted to his wife, daughters and family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister Vicki Lyn Violi. Survivors include his wife of 35 years Connie Steigerwald Violi, two daughters: Lyndsay A. Violi of Fairbault, Mn., Jayme M. Violi of Waterville, Mn., three brothers: Wesley J. Violi and his wife Nancy of Louisville, Ky., Ronald L. Violi and his wife Patricia of Pittsburgh, Charles "Mickey" Violi and his wife Patricia of Canfield, Oh.; his mother-in-law Ann Marie Steigerwald, Camarilo, Ca., and many nieces and nephews. Friends may call at the BURTON WESTLAKE FUNERAL HOME, 3801 West 26th Street at Powell Avenue on Friday from 3 to 9 p.m. Further calling hours will be held on Saturday at the WORRELL FUNERAL HOME, 820 Main Street at 9th Street, Sharpsburg, PA 15215, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at which time there will be a prayer service followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph Church, Dorrysville Road, O'Hara Township, with Reverend Thomas R. Miller, celebrant. Burial in St. Mary's Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Ronald L. and Patricia M. Violi Endowed Chair in Children Development, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation, 1251 Waterfront Place, 5th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. Send condolences at www.Burtonfuneralhome.com.
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47 Entries
March 29, 2008
Sally (Wright) Bacon
March 12, 2008
Dear Connie,
I'm devastated over the news of Little Jimmy's death. I loved him very much and am so sad that life & distance got in the way of us seeing each other. Believe it or not - this is the absolute truth - I wanted to pick up the phone and call him recently. It was around Valentines Day. I don't have your number and wasn't sure where you guys were living. I thought I'd call Ronnie and get the number. I just wanted to connect with Jimmy and tell him how often I thought of him and that I loved him. I told my husband that Jimmy will probably think I'm crazy but he was on my mind so much. I will always regret that I didn't make that call. Jimmy was the very first "best friend" that I ever had. He was a huge part of my childhood. We were pals from the time we were babies. I remember running away with him when we were like 5yrs old. I wasn't allowed to leave our property and I wanted to venture out into the neighborhood. We packed a lunch, made it as far as Chucky Becks climb the huge tree in his yard and sat for hours. Of course, I couldn't get down and my dad had to get me out of the tree when he got home from work. We both got in trouble - but we did it again, week after week. It was our adventure. Growing up we had long talks and shared secrets. The last time I saw him was in Vegas with Ronnie right before Edith died. He looked good and seemed happy. He loved his daughters! He was a very proud father! He talked about you all and was just beaming.
I'm really so sorry for your loss Connie. What a shock for you and the girls. After losing my son, I have become far too intimate with grief. It's a lonely road. I'm sending you all lots of love and prayers. He will always be little Jimmy to me and I will miss him forever.
lots of love, Sally (Wright)
Chris McGary
March 9, 2008
Connie, Lyndsay and Jayme... I am so sorry to hear about the loss of a great man. I regularly check in the papers back home just to see what is going and I have to say I was completely floored this morning. Mr. V was a great man and cared a tremendous amount for his family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all...
Mary Beth Tedesco
March 8, 2008
Dear Connie:
I'm so sorry for your unexpected loss of Jimmie. I remember your wedding, and graduation and how you both made such a dashing couple. From the bottom of my heart, I wish you strength. All my best, Mary Beth Lynn Tedesco
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gina granetto
March 6, 2008
connie,jamie,lindsey
I can not believe this.I just heard the news today....I am so so sorry.You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Micky Blythe
March 5, 2008
Violi's,
Sorry to hear about the sad loss of Mr Jimmy Violi
From legendary white slip ons to dapper Italian shirt and tie combo's that chap had it down bigtime.
I will be eternally grateful for the help he gave from 3000 miles away when we delivered Lucy's first litter, the guy was pure class.
Shame he wont be around to keep you girlies in check, rest assured there is a home in England available should any of you feel like taking time away or recharging the batteries, the door is always open.
Rest In Peace Mr V, your a legend mate.
Fiona and Rick Shults
March 4, 2008
Dear Connie and Girls
I was so shocked to hear about Jim. When I think about Jim I remember when the pond froze and we were all out there shoveling that thing so the kids could ice skate. Half way though Jim says hey why don't we use to snow blower!!Well i t worked like a charm. I have so many wonderful funny memories of Jim. Always had to go out cut his grass if I cut mine. His always looked the best. Remember him trimming the edges with those little sheers. Man he loved it. Wish we could have been neighbors forever. We love you and miss you. All my prayers are with you. Love always Rick Fiona Ricky Jared Ashleigh and Tiffany
Aaron Berarducci
March 3, 2008
Jay, Lindsay, and Connie
I was shocked last night when my mother called and told me about Jim. He was always such a great person to talk to and be around. I remember him always talking to me about football after the games and asking how everything was going. I even remember seeing him when I played in college one time during an away game. He would always give great advice and was so caring and pationate. I am thankful that I had the opportunity to know such a great person. Jim's character and personality lives on through you and everyone who was so lucky to have known Jim and what an amazing man he was. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time.
Cindy Larkin
March 2, 2008
Connie, Lindsay, and Jayme,
I am so shocked and sorry to hear about Jimmy. I cannot get it into my head that this could possibly have happened. Since I was so young when Pat and Ronnie got married, I’ve known Jimmy nearly my entire life. Although, my fondest memories are from The Appliance Store days when I worked for him. To no surprise, he kept me laughing all the time. I wish I could have been there for the service, but know that my constant thoughts and prayers are with you. This is just so, so sad and I am devastated for you. May God’s grace and love help you through this time.
Krista Carleton
March 1, 2008
Connie, Jamye and Lyndsay:
We are sorry to hear of your loss. I was just reading the paper tonight and was shocked. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We had a great time during our soccer years together - so many memories and so much fun. If there is anything we can do for you, please let us know.
John & Krista Carleton
Bob David
March 1, 2008
Connie, Lindsay, Jaime-
I'm so sorry about Jimmy. I don't like many people as much as I liked him. Although you may find it difficult to see things in a positive light right now, and you do need to grieve, you should all be very grateful for the time that you had with him as well. When loved ones move on, we can keep them alive in our souls forever by always remembering how much better off we (and others) are for having known them. I regularly think about what I learned from my mother, father, friends, and even pets, kind of like a personal, internal memorial. Anyway, Dede and I love you all very much and we are here for you, whatever you need.
Bob
George Swanson
March 1, 2008
Connie,
I am sorry about your loss. I was surprised when I heard. I will keep you and your family im my prayers. George from St.mary's maint.
Larne O'Toole
March 1, 2008
Jimmy was a great friend and proud father as well as an oustanding colleague. He was total family. I will miss him.
Chris and Sandy Caprio
March 1, 2008
We are very sorry to hear about jimmy V's passing. To this day I can still hear his voicemail....this is Jim---------------Violi
God Bless!
James Caragein
March 1, 2008
Connie,
So very, very sorry about Jimmy. Jane and I are in shock and wish we could be there. We are in Florida and our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jim and Jane Caragein
Laura Rogers
March 1, 2008
I am truly sorry to hear of your loss. He was a good man, and great father. I will always think fondly of Mr. Violi and the hours spent playing soccer with his girls. Take care of yourself in this time of need; my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sincerely,
Reeds Jewelers
March 1, 2008
Connie & Family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
kathleen frye
March 1, 2008
As a UPS driver, I am afforded the most wonderful opportunity to meet people in all arenas of life that I would otherwise probably never encounter. Three years ago John V Schultz Warehouse moved to Klier Drive in Fairview...my route. As a routine stop, I met the usual receivers helping to offload their deliveries ...at this time a big stop! Directly across the way from my dock was a big windowed office with all sorts of computers, video monitors, and a rather state of the art office. One day the gentleman who worked in that office came out to help with my delivery. I was rather surprised by that, as he was the headman! I said his help wasn’t necessary...I could do it, but he insisted. So began my three-year friendship with Jimmy Violi. He placed me in a comfort zone like nobody else could. He made me laugh and I was enlightened to see just what a grounded human being he was for what I realized was a man bigger than life itself! What a character.... all his jokes, his sense of humor, his imagination full of creation.... his family! I feel I knew them from his everyday reports. He kept us craving for more. He gave hope to people who felt there was none. Everybody was an equal in his eyes and he could certainly make anybody somebody with his positive and confident outlook on life. I would pull into the shop for a delivery and there was Jim picking up trash outside, shoveling sidewalks from snow, digging delivery drivers from snow drifts, painting...you name the duty and he was doing it just as any other employee because it needed done. I will miss you and I thank you for inviting me into your life for three incredible years of knowing you. You are truly the most amazing person I have ever known. I hope David Archuleta wins American Idol for you. You said you could pick a star anywhere.... Well so can God. And I guess you will now be the one shining brightest down upon us just as you kept everyone under your gigantic wings. Thank you Jimmy Ravioli for your unforgettable presence on this earth. You are surely one of a kind! P.S. I hope heaven has a lot of grass up there so you can mow to your heart’s content!
Diane Russ
March 1, 2008
Dear Connie,
You may not remember me. I worked with you on rehab @ St.Vincents. I just want you to know how sorry I am for your loss. You are in my prayers
Diane Russ
Sara Szymanski
March 1, 2008
I was saddened to learn of your loss. Jimmy was a great guy full of energy and humor - he will be remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ed Pelinsky
February 29, 2008
To the Violi Family.....My prayers and thoughts are with you at this time. I will forever remember the wonderful years I spent working for and with the Violi Family at the Appliance Store.
Ed Pelinsky
Sean Butler
February 29, 2008
Connie & Family,
Absolutely devastated by the news. Our best to you & your family.
Sean & Terri Butler
Chuck Whitehill
February 29, 2008
Condolences to the Violi Family.
Jim Violi's memory will live on in all our hearts.
Lyndsay, Jayme, Jimmy and Neighbor's Baby
Al and Mickie Hensch
February 29, 2008
Good Neighbor, Great Friend, Wonderful Husband and Father,
SoSo Babysitter.
We Love You Jimmy
Brian Buchner
February 29, 2008
I only knew Jim for a short time, but could tell what a good man he was. I'am sorry to hear about your sudden loss. He will be greatly missed. Till we all meet again in paradise
Ang Luden
February 29, 2008
What a guy......
He will NEVER be forgotten thats for darn sure. May you turn to God in your time of need.
Stephanie DeFlorentis
February 29, 2008
Jayme~ My thoughts are with you and your family at this time. You're a strong person and you will get through this. All my love.
Carolyn Stright
February 29, 2008
Connie, I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Missy Larson
February 29, 2008
Connie, Jayme and Lyndsay...I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Mr. Violi. I was in complete shock when my mom told me. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you and wish you strength to get through this. He was a generous, kind, caring and great man. I will never forget how you guys stepped up and took care of me and my mom when we were in California, Pa when I got hurt. You guys were there for us during that time and even after. Not only did Mr. Violi care so much for his family, he cared for his daughters friends too, which meant a lot. Im so sorry I cant be in Erie to come to the showing but just know that he will forever hold a special place in mine and my parents heart. I will be praying for you and wishing you strength and courage through this difficult time.
Graham Parsons and Staff
February 29, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Len Stidle
February 29, 2008
Violi Family: I was teribly shocked, and saddened at the news of Jimmy's passing! My sincerest condolences to the entire Violi family, and friends. Jimmy will be in my thoughs, and prayers.
Don Carlson
February 29, 2008
Dear Violi Family
I hold you in my thoughts & prayers in this time of tremendous loss. I've been trying to write this all morning & still can't find the words. I had the honor of speaking at Jim's Retirement Roast, & the love respect & admiration filled the room. He was an expert of the "Golden Rule"- " DO unto others as you would have them do unto you"
I'll miss you Jimmy V & I regret everytime we let a busy schedule get in the way of a day of golf!
Donnie C
Cathie Wieser
February 29, 2008
Connie,Lyndsay and Jayme,
You have our deepest heartfelt sympathy. Words can not express the loss we feel here at work..Jim touched all of our lives everyday and we all have wonderful memories that we will cherish forever. We are all better people to have known him. Thanks for sharing him with us!
JVS Warehouse Employees
Andrew Kukla
February 29, 2008
Violi Family:
I was very saddened to hear about your sudden loss. Mr. V was an amazing person who always made the people around him feel comfortable. You couldn’t help but smile whenever he was around. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family and may you take comfort in your memories. God bless
Robin Kulik
February 29, 2008
Connie & Family,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. My prayers are with you.
Rick Edwards
February 29, 2008
I was saddened to hear from my brother Bob of "Little Jimmy" passing. He was a good freind growing up. I will keep him in my prayers.
Michele Vance
February 29, 2008
Connie and Girls - Jim was a wonderful man, and I am so grateful to have known him. He taught me the importance of keeping things simple - whether in life or at work - and he was so genuinely supportive that I don't know how I would have succeeded at RentWay without him. When we weren't discussing work, we were talking about his family. He was a devoted father and husband, and he was so proud of you. He bragged about every one of you - he even bragged about his dog!
This is just so sudden, and no words can describe how much Bill and I enjoyed knowing Jim nor can words express how deeply sorry we are for your loss.
Please know you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Brad Kindseth
February 29, 2008
Jayme and family- I was very sadden to hear of the unexpected passing of your dad. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time.
Adam Annaccone
February 29, 2008
Violi Family,
My thoughts and prayers go out to each and every one of you during this trying time. Jim was an incredible person who could bring light to any dark situation. All my love!
Andrea, Amy, Mary, and Angela Krahe
February 29, 2008
Mr. Violi was one of the greatest people to grace this earth. He will always be remembered for his smile and wonderful personality. God has him now and he will be the angel with you throughout your lives. Our family’s prayers and thoughts are with all of you during this difficult and sad time.
"There are no "good-byes" in Heaven.--Anonymous
Jenna Tillman
February 29, 2008
Violi Family,
I am in shock about the news. I send my deepest sympathy to your family. I can remember Mr. Violi at all the soccer games his voice was one of the only ones you could always here from the stands. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you guys.
Jon and Chris Kline
February 29, 2008
Dear Lyndsay and Family,
We were saddened to hear of your father's passing so suddenly. May all the good memories you have of him comfort you in the days ahead. You're in our thoughts and prayers.
Stella LaPaglia
February 29, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
STEVE & SANDY HOFFMAN
February 29, 2008
OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY
Jennifer Miazga
February 29, 2008
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead. He was like a second father to many of us, and a man willing to give you a chance when you needed it most.
Heather Merlino (Keeley)
February 29, 2008
Connie and family - Words can not describe how sorry I am for your tremendous loss. As you know I worked very closely with Jim for years at RentWay and he made a great impact in my life. He was a wonderful man and I know how very much he loved you and the girls. I know Jim and how he always looked out for everyone he cared about and I know in heaven that will be no different. I was not able to be in town to pay my respects in person but please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers and I pray you all have the strength to get through this time of sorrow. Again you are in my prayers.
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