WESTFIELD: James Edward Markvart, 71, passed away April 17, 2016 at Mercy Medical Center; surrounded by his loving family. 
James was born on Nov. 29, 1944 in Chicago, Illinois a son of the late Walter and Margaret (O’Connell) Markvart; but was a resident of the Westfield area for over 50 years.
James served his country in the United States Airforce during the Vietnam Era; and received an honorable discharge on Oct. 7, 1966. He was a member of the American Legion Post #124 for 49 years. He served as Past Commander, Past Adjutant,Past Historian, and was also reelected as Present Historian.James retired as I.T. Consultant from American Airlines in 2007.
Besides his parents he was predeceased by his 4 brothers, William, Joseph, Walter, and Leonard Markvart.
James is survived by his devoted wife of 25 years, Ella (Hansen) Markvart; his loving children-3 sons, Michael Markvart of Southwick, James A. Markvart of Granby, CT, Mitchell Kellogg and wife Corey, on Long Island; a daughter, Sarah Provencher and husband Raymond , of Southwick; 2 dear sisters, Nora Maloney and husband Brian, of Winsted, CT, Elizabeth Becker ; one adored grandchild, Andrew Kellogg; and a large extended family.
Graveside services will be held on Sunday (April 24th) 2:00 PM in the Silver Street Cemetery, Silver St., Granville. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion, Post 124, P.O. Box 236, 38 Broad St., Westfield, MA 01086. Assisting the family is the Southwick Forastiere Family Funeral Home, 624 College Highway, Southwick. www.forastiere.com
