James J. Neve, 92, self-made businessman

James J. Neve, 92, of Lafayette Hill, a Conshohocken businessman, died of heart failure Monday, Jan. 14, at his home.

In 1936, Mr. Neve started J.J. Neve Coal & Fuel Co. He served as its owner-operator before retiring in 1980.

Under Mr. Neve, the business expanded to encompass an iron and steel trucking warehouse and storage facility, and an iron ore unloading facility.

The consolidated firm, James J. Neve Inc., is now run by Mr. Neve's son Joseph A. It is a warehousing, unloading, and distribution center for railway cargo.

Born in Conshohocken, Mr. Neve attended schools in the borough before leaving school at age 15 to support his family.

He joined the Army during World War II and served with Company D, 37th Infantry. In 1944, he received an honorable discharge at the rank of private.

Mr. Neve was a member of St. Philip Neri Church, and a life member of three groups: Catholic War Veterans Post 1182, Kiwanis Club of Conshohocken, and the Navy League Eastern Conference.

Mr. Neve's daughter, Maria A. Noon, said her father was a generous, charismatic man whose "drive and determination were his hallmark. He never expected more of anyone than he did of himself."

He was husband of the former Sarah Rio. The two met as toddlers, growing up near Washington and Oak Streets, and were married for 72 years.

In addition to his wife, son, and daughter, he is survived by another son, James K.; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; a brother; and nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 19, at St. Philip Neri Church, 437 Ridge Pike, Lafayette Hill, Pa. 19444. A viewing will be Friday, Jan. 18, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the Emil J. Ciavarelli Family Funeral Home, 516 Fayette St., Conshohocken, and on Saturday from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the church. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Donations may be made to St. Philip Neri Church.