Yano '' Jim'' Passanisi died suddenly at Melrose Wakefield Hospital on Monday afternoon March 5th at the age of 78. He was born and brought up in the West End of Boston, graduated from Boston Trade School in 1941. He was a WWII Army Air Corps veteran serving in the Asiatic Pacific Theater. Following his discharge from the service, Jim worked as an engineer in the Jet Engine Dept. at General Electric Co in the Lynn and Everett plants for over 35yrs. retiring in 1982. He was a member of the West End Boys & Girls Club for many years even after leaving Boston and moving to Melrose 50yrs ago. He stayed in shape by being active in the Melrose Tennis Program and other athletic programs in Melrose. Jim was also a die hard Boston Celtic fan. He was the son of the late Dominico & Mary ( Saracina ) Passanisi. Brother of Margaret A. Grasso of Ashland, Sarah Cacciola of Everett, Peter & Mello Passanisi both of FL., and the late Joseph Passanisi. Uncle of Annemarie Fairhurst of Ashland, Diane M. Costello of Melrose, Robert J. Grasso of VA., Charles T & Leo A. Grasso both of Alaska. Also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, grand & great grand nieces and great grand nephews. Funeral Services will be held athe Gately Funeral Home 79 W Foster St., Melrose on Sunday March 11 at 3:30 PM. Relatives and friends invited. Visiting hours prior to the service from 1 pm to 3:30 pm. Memorial contributions may be sent to the West End Club for Boys & Girls.