James D. Varhola, age 55, of 250 East 29th Street, died Monday, January 22, 2007 at his residence following a two-year illness. He was born in Erie, Pa. on October 27, 1951, a son of the late John and Thelma Tabb Varhola.

He graduated from Strong Vincent High School, Class of 1969. He was an electrical technician for General Electric Company for 34 years. James was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Byzantine Church. He enjoyed fishing, golf, boating and playing pool.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, John C. Varhola. Survivors include his wife of 36 years Millan F. Gaston Varhola; five daughters: Millan D. Varhola and her fiancé Charles Burkett of Auburn, Ga., Susan Fredricks and her husband Brendon, Trina Varhola, Penelope Varhola, Cynthia Varhola, all of Erie; a son James D. Varhola, II of Erie; two sisters: Thelma Crocoll of Erie, Helen Wright and her husband John of Waterford; one brother, Martin Varhola of Erie; ten grandchildren, five step grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the Burton Funeral Home, 602 West 10th Street Wednesday from 7 to 9 p.m., Thursday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m., including a Parastas service on Thursday at 4 p.m.

A prayer service will be held at the funeral home on Friday at 10:00 a.m. followed by the Funeral Divine Liturgy at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church Byzantine Rite, 3415 Wallace at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Andrew J. Deskevich officiating.

Burial in Laurel Hill Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 3415 Wallace, Erie PA 16504.

Published in the Erie Times-News from 1/24/2007 - 1/25/2007.