James E. Kulback

KULBACK – James E., 84, New Germany, went to be with the Lord, February 26, 2017, surrounded by his loving family at Memorial Medical Center. Born January 16, 1933 in Johnstown, son of Michael and Anna (Vlasaty) Kulback.

Preceded in death by parents; loving wife of 50 years, the former Helen M. Wirfel who died May 29, 2007; son Edward; and father and mother-in-law, Celestine and Margaret (Weinzierl) Wirfel.

Survived by children: Patricia, wife of Richard Petak, Mineral Point; Karen, widow of Edward Wess, New Germany; Ronald, New Germany; Linda, wife of Brian Arnold, Mount Hope; James, New Germany; and Robert, married to Renee (Evans), New Germany; grandchildren: Allan (Becky), Adam, Jessica (Rusty), Molly (Tim), Sam (Shannon), Amy (Jeff), Rose, Brandon, Sara, Tim, Matt, Amanda, Seth, and Tyler; great-grandchildren: Trenton, Easton, Byron, Claire, Nadia, Wesston, Levi, Deanna, Adrienne, Charlie, and Blake. Brother of William (Margaret) Richland; Michael, South Fork; and Shirley Capretti, Gaithersburg, MD.

Graduate of Richland High School Class of 1951. James was an Army veteran of the Korean War. He retired as an electrical foreman from Bethlehem Steel after 34 years of service. James was an active member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, New Germany, for 61 years, and the St. Mary’s Cemetery Association over 45 years. Member of Windber American Legion Post 137 for 63 years. Jim enjoyed being a husband, father and pap. He was instrumental in starting the Old German Fest in New Germany and coached New Germany Little League and T-Ball for many years and enjoyed collecting antique cars, hunting, golfing, bowling, and life on the farm. Jim liked reminiscing with family and friends. He was very generous and loved to give more than receive.

Friends will be received from 1 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Charles O. Dimond Funeral Home, Inc., South Fork, where vigil for the deceased will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday at Immaculate Conception Church, New Germany, by Father Leon Hont, OSB.

Committal, St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Military graveside service by St. Michael American Legion Post 551.

The family requests no flowers and suggests memorial contributions be sent to Birthright of Johnstown, 216 Dibert Street, Johnstown, PA 15901.

He will be loved and missed by his family and all who knew him. He will always be our strength and inspiration.

( www.DimondFuneralHome.com )