KINGMAN – Many of those who knew and loved him will pay their last respects this weekend to the late James Zyla. For years, the red-capped, white bearded Zyla shuffled the streets of Kingman.
Many mistook Zyla for a helpless transient though he was highly educated and intelligent and wowed anyone who heard him play a piano. Affectionately known as “Kingman’s Santa”, Zyla drew feature coverage in the L.A. Times and a number of other newspapers and he was once presented a key to the city by Kingman Mayor Jen Miles.
The Sunday, July 4 open-house style memorial for Zyla is scheduled from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the VFW Hall at 6068 Supai Dr. behind the Neelys Korner indoor swap meet.
Dave Hawkins
And I could not get the Kingman Miner to put an article in, when he passed away. A local icon, really. But perhaps the Miner was too busy with political crap.
Except for the side of him where he kicked peoples cars when irritated. What a crock.
RIP Santa
The world has truly lost a wonderfull soul. Heaven has gained a most precious angel. I was blessed enough to get a few moments to get him to share some of his life stories. He truly was lucky to have lived a rich life chalk full of wisdom he was willing to share with those willing to listen. It was an honor to have known him. My prayers are with his family and other friends. God bless him and keep him safe…..Amen.
We miss seeing you around. You was an interesting person to sit and talk with. RIP, you will be missed.