John T. Pariza, leader in area veterans affairs, dies at 83

BOARDMAN — The Mahoning and Shenango valleys lost a passionate leader in veterans affairs when John T. Pariza, a Korean War veteran, died Thursday. He was 83.

A strong and persistent advocate for veterans, Pariza, formerly of West Middlesex, Pa., was a proud Army veteran of the so-called “Forgotten War.”

Pariza arrived in Korea in August 1950, where he served for 16 months and where he spent his 18th birthday. His decorations included two Purple Hearts and the Combat Infantry Badge. He also suffered severe frostbite on his feet.

For the complete story and the Tribute, read Sunday's Vindicator and Vindy.com