Arnold Cioffi

Arnold “Jim” Cioffi, 96, of Topeka, Kansas died July 16, 2016 at Stormont-Vail hospital.

He was born on August 30, 1919 in Rutland, Vermont the son of Onotrio and Anetonette (Tedesco) Cioffi.

He attended school in Rutland.  In 1937 he joined the U.S. Govt. CCC, 1134 Co. in St. Albans, Vermont.  From 1937 to 1940 he worked for Rutland Cleaners.  From 1940 to 1941 he joined the Vermont National Guard and was with the U.S. Army H3 Division of the 172 infantry, 1st Battalion and fought in the jungles of the South Pacific.  He was on the Transport USS Coolidge when it was sunk near Guadalcanal.  From 1940 to 1944 he was a Code Clerk and held the rank of Tech Sergeant 5th Class.  From 1947 to 1963 he worked in Civil Service for the Air Force Depot in Topeka where he retired as the Chief of Police.   In 1963 Jim went to Barber School and was a barber from 1963 to 1973.

Jim enjoyed traveling with his wife, Doris and was on several bowling leagues. 

He was a member of the Philip Billard Post #1650 of the VFW for over 70 years, a member of the American Legion Post #1 for over 40 years and a life member of the Knights of Columbus.  Jim was also a member of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church where he served as an usher for many years.

He married Doris Virginia Johnson on July 4, 1944 at Holy Name Catholic Church in Topeka.  She preceded him in death on January 31, 2012.  He was also predeceased by four brothers, Isidore, Joseph Gene and John Cioffi and two sisters, Esther Crosta and Rose DuBeau.

Friends and family will have a memorial visitation at Most Pure Heart of Mary Church on Thursday from 12:30 p.m. until 1:00 p.m.  A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m.  Inurnment will follow in the Holy Family Columbarium at Mt. Calvary Cemetery where military honors will be conducted by Philip Billard Post #1650 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the Most Pure Heart of Mary Ministry to the Aging and sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, Kansas  66603.

Online condolences and fond memories may be left at www.brennanmathenafh.com.