James William Frio, 75, of Valley Grove, WV, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at his home following a lengthy illness.
He was born on February 12, 1951, in Wheeling, WV, the son of the late James and Leona Mowder Frio.
Jim was an auctioneer for more than 40 years and a member of the West Virginia Auctioneers Hall of Fame. He was a two-time West Virginia Bid Calling Grand Champion, a member of the West Virginia Governor’s Auctioneer Board of Professional Review, and a former executive director of the West Virginia Auctioneers Association. He was an early investor in AuctionZip.com, one of the pioneering companies in the online auction industry. He was the former owner of Frio Contracting, Jim Frio Promotions, Island Pawn Brokers, and Frio & Stack Auction Service.
Jim had a lifelong passion for boxing, serving as a former chairman of the West Virginia State Boxing/Athletic Commission, a certified boxing judge, and a fight promoter. He was an Episcopalian by faith.
He loved to travel, visit antique shops and fruit stands, and take in new places and new people. He was a devoted fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates, and was known throughout his community for his warmth, his gift for conversation, and his talent for making friends wherever he went.
In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Karen Lee Watenpool Frio, in 2016.
He is survived by his daughter, Katie (Roger) Shunk; three grandchildren, Ben Clevinger, Becca Shunk, and Maddie Shunk; his brother, Rick (Kathy) Frio; special friends Fred and Maryanne Westfall, Bob Fitzsimmons, Chuck Dedo, and Shane Stack; and many nieces and nephews.
Friends will be received on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, from 2–4 PM and 6–8 PM, and on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, from 10 AM until the time of service at 11 AM, at Kepner Funeral Homes, 166 Kruger Street, Wheeling, WV (304-242-2311), with Charles Jarvis officiating. Interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery, Wheeling, WV.
Memorial contributions may be made to Wheeling Health Right, Inc., 61 29th Street, Wheeling, WV 26003.
