Lt. Col. James "Bud" Carey Via passed away on Sunday, March 30, 2014. He was born in Blackwell, Oklahoma on June 20, 1923 to parents, Archie and Bertha Via. He served for 26 years in the United States Air Force and was a highly decorated veteran of World War II, the Korean War and Viet Nam; he defended his country as a pilot. After retirement, he went on to use his engineering degree to build Alaskan King Crab fishing boats. He was an avid reader and accomplished violinist. Finally, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. Loved by all who met him, he will be greatly missed. James was preceded in death by his parents and great-granddaughter, Arielle.
He is survived by his wife Mary Via, his children: Kerry, Frank, Jayne and husband Nick, Tammy and husband Jimmy, Marty and wife Deborahe, Jordan and wife Maya, 11 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, sisters Jean and husband Mace, Virginia, Joann and husband Rod; numerous nieces and nephews.
MEMORIAL SERVICE
FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2014
2:45 PM
FT. SAM HOUSTON NATIONAL CEMETERY
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.
