Salih John Siam, 96, of Plain Township, formerly of Worcester, Massachusetts, passed away January 3, 2021 while in hospice care at the Canton Christian Home. Born September 27, 1924 in Holyoke, Massachusetts to the late Ahmed and Clementine (Dobriga) Siam. John served in the 505 Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division in WWII, fighting in many battles while being stationed in France, Holland, Belgium, and Germany, receiving a Purple Heart in the Battle of the Bulge. Following the war, he attended Boston University on the GI Bill. Married Helen A. Capone in 1947, she preceded him in death in 1971,  also preceded by their infant daughter Karen; son Richard; two brothers, Omer, and Ahmed (Helga) Siam; two sisters, Leila Pappas, and Enise (Charles) Latino as well as second wife, Priscilla (Jasper) Siam, died 2011.

After attending Boston University, he worked for the Telegram and Gazette, then moved on to other newspapers in Ansonia, Connecticut, Fitchburg, Massachusetts, and Canton. John retired from the Canton Repository in 1988, serving as the publisher from 1980 to 1988.  He had many close friends, former neighbors, as well as colleagues from the Repository. Always enjoyed golfing whenever possible.  One of his passions was in joining his paratrooper comrades from the 505 PIR for regimental reunions and jump meets.  John made 86 jumps in his life, all the while being afraid of heights.  Returned to Europe in 1994 for battlefield reunions, and had planned on making a ceremonial jump in Holland, but that was cancelled due to bad weather.  He was very close to his good neighbors and friends from Norwood Hills. Also enjoyed his many friends from Brookside Country Club, who met every week for dinner at the Massillon Amvets and Eagles Club until recent times.

Survived by two sons, Jeffrey and Steven; two granddaughters, Sheri and Rachel; a great granddaughter Amelia (Nicolas) Rosignol; two brothers, Mehmet (Phyllis) Siam, and Abraham (Phyllis) Siam; and a sister, Susan Cardin.

The family would like to thank all of the nurses, aids, doctors, and staff at the Canton Christian Home for their compassion and care during his stay there for the last three years.

A private memorial service will be held in Worcester, Massachusetts at a later date.  Donations in John's name may be made to the 82nd Airborne Division Association and the Wounded Warrior Project.

Waltner-SIMCHAK Funeral Home Locally Owned Since 1917 330-455-0293