Mr. James "Jim" Tziouvalas' Obituary
James Tziouvalas, of San Bernardino, California, passed away surrounded by his loving family, on April 8, 2025, at the age of 89.
James was born on February 10, 1936, in the village of Vouno Tegeas in Tripolis, Arcadia, Greece. He is the beloved son of the late Matthaios and Katerina Tziouvalas.
James was a devoted husband to Dena Tziouvalas (Dimopoulos), and the proud father of Katerina Tziouvalas (Pritchett) and Manthos (Barbara) Tziouvalas. He is survived by his loving brother, George Tziouvalas, seven cherished grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He was predeceased by his brothers Themistoklis, Apostolos, and Theodoros, whom he held close in his heart throughout his life.
At just 15 years old, James bravely journeyed from Greece to America, arriving at Ellis Island on April 30, 1951. From there, he traveled to Chicago, Illinois, where he was welcomed and sponsored by his Uncle Jimmy and Aunt Stella as he began his new life.
After graduating from Austin High School in Chicago in 1954, James proudly served in the United States Army from 1959 to 1961. Following his military service, he settled in Southern California, where he was introduced to Dena Dimopoulos at Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church’s Annual Festival in July 1967. The two were married later that year at the church on October 22, 1967 — beginning a loving marriage that would span nearly six decades.
A proud Greek-American, James was known for his big heart, his even bigger personality, and his deep pride in his heritage. For more than 40 years, James cultivated an abundant backyard garden, lovingly tending to the fruits and vegetables that reminded him of his village in Greece. His garden was more than a hobby; it was a gift to his family and friends, a source of joy, and the centerpiece of countless meals and gatherings.
Throughout his life, James worked as a restaurateur for various establishments across the Inland Empire and was known for his hospitality, warm spirit, and love of conversation. Whether preparing a meal, sharing stories from his youth, or offering advice, James had an unmistakable way of making everyone feel welcome, seen, and connected.
James was a member of Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church, where he found his wife, lifelong community, and spiritual strength.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, April 28 at 10:00 a.m. at Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church in San Bernardino, California.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church (P.O. Box # 311,San Bernardino, CA 92402) or The Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society.
James’s memory will live on through his family, friends, and all who were blessed to share in his warmth, wisdom, and boundless love.
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