Former Enumclaw resident James Anthony Forza died Dec. 2, 2011, at the age of 88.

He was born Sept. 2, 1923, in Tacoma and had lived in Enumclaw from 1991 to 2008. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy who served during World War II, fought in the South Pacific and received the Purple Heart. He was a 37-year employee of the U.S. Postal Service, retiring in 1981.

He is survived by wife of 31 years Patricia Forza; sons Jerry Forza of Enumclaw and Larry Forza of Springfield, Mo.; daughter Marie Clay and husband Dee of Riggins, Idaho; stepsons Jay Diebell and wife Linda of Vashon Island, Wash., and Gene Diebell of Klamath Falls, Ore.; 21 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by brothers Reno Forza and Harry Forza.

A funeral Mass took place Wednesday, Dec. 14, at Holy Disciples Catholic Church and burial was at Tahoma National Cemetery.