Mr. Louis J. Jweid

Mr. Louis J. Jweid, age 89, of Utica, passed away on Thursday, August 19, 2010 at the St. Luke’s Home with the love and support of his family. Born in Utica on August 4, 1921, Louis was the son of the late George and Zahida (Hallak) Jweid. He was raised and educated in Utica and attended local schools. A proud veteran of World War II, he joined the 8th Army Air Corps late in 1942 and served his country as a B-24 pilot with the rank of 1st Lieutenant, stationed in the European Theater of Operations. He was in the first group of American bombers that raided Berlin. He had participated in 23 missions and was shot down during his 12th mission over Nazi-held territory, taken captive by the Germans, and sent to a prisoner of war (POW) camp. He was awarded both the Silver Star and an oak leaf cluster. On September 28, 1947, he married the former Evelyn G. Casper. It was said of their marriage that “the sun rose and set on his Evelyn”. She passed away on September 29, 2008, the day after celebrating their 61st wedding anniversary. Louis’ working career began with the family concern, Jweid & Sons Grocery Store, located on the corner of James St. and Howard Ave. He subsequently became a salesman for various food companies throughout the greater Utica area. He was well-suited for his chosen profession, and he had a natural instinct for relating to people. He was knowledgeable of so many subjects and was an all around gentleman. A quiet man, he always had the needs of his family in his heart and was admired as being a great provider and a hardworking dad. He was most proud of having a respectful family who watched over him to the very end. During his spare time, he enjoyed bowling on area leagues, playing cards, and trying his luck at games of chance. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, a former member of the POW Club, and was instrumental in the organization of the Men’s Syrian-American Club. He was a parishioner of the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. Louis is survived by his children and their spouses, Donna Vitagliano of Utica, Elaine Terrell of Riverdale, NY, George and Patricia Jweid of New Hartford, and Joanne and James Millson, Sr. of Clinton; and his grandchildren, including Elise Terrell, David Terrell, James Millson, Jr., Jessica Millson, George Jweid, and Danielle Jweid. Survivors also include his sisters and brothers-in-law, Agnes and Vincent “Whitey” Cerro, Mary and James Bates, and Jean Zombik; his brother, Francis Jweid; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, in-laws, Sam Mekel, Roseann Jweid, Elias and Evelyn Casper, and Edward and Joyce Casper; and his loyal former “Melrose Ave.” neighbors. He was predeceased by his brother, Anthony G. “Jr.” Jweid; his sisters and brother-in-law, Anna and John Wakeel, and Alice Mekel; and his in-laws, including Robert Zombik. The family is grateful to Dr. Timothy LaFont, Dr. Nicholas Peters, Dr. Raouf Kodsy, Nurse Practitioner Sue Jackson; and the entire staff of the St. Luke’s Home, especially the Clark West unit. Their compassion and professional concern was of much comfort and support. Visitation will be held Sunday (today) from 2:00-5:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Louis’ funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Monday afternoon at 12:00 from the funeral home and at 1:00 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Committal prayers and interment will take place graveside at Calvary Cemetery with Military Honors conferred.

Mr. Louis J. Jweid

August 4, 1921 - August 19, 2010