James George Callas

The son of Greek immigrants, Jim was born August of 1923 in the City of Los Angeles. Though raised with deep ties to his Hellenic roots, he was a proud first-generation American and served as a B-29 top ball turret gunner in World War II. Upon his return to the U.S., he moved to the Antelope Valley where he raised his family and opened a local market with his brothers Nick and John, under the Callas name.

Jim fulfilled his lifelong dream to be close to the ocean, moving to San Diego at the ripe young age of 89.

Jim’s family remembers him fondly as a man who could make friends wherever he went. He never failed to captivate a room and make cheeks blush from his delightful and, at times, irreverent humor.

Jim often quoted Satchel Page, “Never look back. Someone may be gaining on you. Just don’t stumble.” He was a man of determination, a man of vigor, and a man of many words. But more than anything, he was a man who lived life heartily and without regrets.

So to that, we pour out a little scotch and toast to Jim the way he would for us – with a broad smile and a big pat on the back.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Elene Callas, son, George, his wife Denise Callas of Rancho Santa Fe, and their daughters, Nicole and Kelly Callas, and daughter, Barbara Callas, her husband, Paul R. Gurian of Pacific Palisades, and their daughters, Alegra and Camile Callas Gurian. James’ sole surviving sibling is brother Nicholas George Callas, 95, currently of Oak Park, California. Sisters-in-law, Martha Tavoularis Callas and Thayus Rojo.

He was loved and will be missed.

The rights of the Greek Orthodox Church will be given at a private family service.