James Cinelli

Cinelli, James Angelo

James Angelo Cinelli, age 85 of Fairborn, OH, passed away peacefully, February 1, 2025, at The Ridge-Beavercreek. He was born February 23, 1939, in Troy, NY, the son of the late Pasquale Cinelli Sr. and Jennie (Friguiletti) Cinelli. A proud alumnus of Siena College in Albany, New York, James earned his bachelor's degree in physics. His career spanned nearly three decades as an aeronautical engineer with Civil Service at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, where he oversaw numerous successful projects. Throughout his tenure, he was recognized for his contributions with various work-related awards, specifically in the area of fire prevention on aircraft. In addition, James' focus was investigating military plane crashes and designing chemical fire safety systems, for which he traveled quite often to California, Nevada, and New York. James also served honorably in the United States Air Force for four years. He had a unique gift for explaining complex concepts, often humorously demonstrating the mechanics behind everyday items. Outside of his professional life, James was a devoted Catholic from a proud Italian family, who cherished his faith deeply. He had a passion for jazz music, frequently listening to the rhythms of Dave Brubeck, Chuck Berry, Waylon Jennings, and Simon & Garfunkel. He loved sharing his passion for airplanes and taking friends and family to the U.S. Air Force Museum, watching the Indy 500 each year in which he tracked each driver. He also owned a Firebird to which he cherished so much he had a "Not a TA" vanity plate. A physics enthusiast, James was known as a "left brain" type of person, often immersing himself in physics problems and sharing his knowledge with others. His passions included fixing cars, tending to his yard, and mowed the lawn meticulously-activities that reflected his nature and love for detail. In his youth he was a volunteer firefighter. His dedication was not only to his professional pursuits but also to his family; he held high expectations for his children and colleagues, always encouraging them towards greater achievements. James's pride in his children was immeasurable, particularly appreciating all that they had done for him following the passing of his wife. In addition to his parents, James is preceded in death by his wife, Joanne M. E. (Kennedy) Cinelli; and brother, Dr. Thomas "Tom" Cinelli DDS. He is survived by three children, John P. Cinelli, Jacqueline "Jackie" A. Cinelli, Jennifer B. Cinelli; brother, Pasquale (Patti-Ann) Cinelli Jr.; sister-in-law, Mary (Kennedy) Balsam; many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. A visitation will be held from 6:00 P.M., to 8:00 P.M., Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at the Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, 422 E. Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd., Fairborn, OH 45324. Where a funeral mass will be held at 10:00 A.M., Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at the Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church, 954 N. Maple Avenue, Fairborn, OH 45324, Fr. Charles Lang celebrant. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association online or by mail. Inurnment to follow at Byron Cemetery at a later date.