James Vincent Zarrella, born January 28, 1935 in Waterbury, CT, peacefully passed on June 5, 2020 at the age of 85. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ginette M. Zarrella. James is survived by his three children, Christopher S. Zarrella, Carole H. Vanzant, Laura M. Voorhis; his sister, Valerie Zarrella Genova; and two grandchildren, Jonathan V. Zarrella and Danielle G. Zarrella Salazar.
James was born January 28, 1935 in Waterbury Connecticut to James and Helen Zarrella. His fondest childhood memories involved playing baseball, football, and ice skating with his friends.
He entered the U.S. Army in 1958 where he served for over 20 years. His first overseas assignment was to France where he met and married his wife Ginette. He returned to France in late 1963 and later served in Vietnam at the height of the war. Afterwards, he was stationed at Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas. After a year in South Korea he was assigned to Heidelberg, Germany before coming to Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio and retiring from the Army.
After his retirement he had a small landscaping partnership. His last working job was a tortilla maker at the HEB on Nacogdoches Road in San Antonio.
He enjoyed traveling, cooking, and being with his family. His happiest moments included the births and weddings of his children and grandchildren and his family Easter and Christmas dinners.
A graveside service will be held at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery on Tuesday, June 16, 2020 at 1:00 pm.
Flower donations can be sent to Sunset Funeral Home at 1701 Austin Highway, San Antonio, TX 78218
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