James Thomas Meletio

James Thomas Meletio (88), a native Dallasite, born February 16, 1926, to Alex and Wilhelmina Meletio, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2015. James was a man of deep faith, and he was a role model of a God-centered life. James, whose life was guided by faith and family, graduated from Highland Park High School, where he played football with Doak Walker and Bobby Layne. James also played football at SMU, and he was recruited by Detroit and Chicago to play professionally, but he chose to stay in Dallas.

James graduated from SMU with a degree in Electrical Engineering on February 27, 1946, and on the following day he married his sweetheart, Dolores, whom he met when they were juniors high school. James then joined the family business, Meletio Electric Supply, which was founded by his father.

The love story of James and Dolores lasted for 70+ years. They renewed their wedding vows at 25, 50, 60, 61, 62 and 63 anniversary years. James is survived by his beloved Dolores; daughters, Mary Lou Weiss (Eric), Lisa Roach (John), and Sr. Ann Meletio; Sons, Rocky Meletio (Joy), Martin Meletio (Valerie); grandchildren, Chris Eppler (Elida), Eric Smith (Leslie), Nicholas Meletio, Matthew Meletio, Julia Kanneman (Adam); great grandchildren Zephyr Lou-Ann Smith, Vix Falco Smith, Luke Kanneman, Grace Kanneman, and many nieces and nephews who were dear to him.

After retiring from Meletio Electric, James was a consultant to Metroplex Lighting where he had the pleasure to work with his sons, Rocky and Martin.

James was an active member and President of the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES). He was also a member of the Grape Nuts Study Club for more than 30 years, where he and 9 vinophile friends enjoyed blind wine tastings.

James was a lifetime kidder, and he can now ask the Master Planner of All: “Why are there interstate highways in Hawaii? Why do people in Dallas park in the driveway and drive in the parkway?”

Our grateful thanks go to Ovierheya Ogboru, Sarah Chitukutuku, Ethel Chitepo, Elizabeth Frye, and Mathew Ajakaiye for your years of care and dedication.

A rosary will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2015 at 10:00a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30a.m. and burial to follow at Calvary Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials may be made to Catholic Charities of Dallas, 9461 LBJ Frwy, Suite 128, Dallas, TX 75243 or the charity of your choice.