Obituary

James “Jim” E. Peel, Chippewa Township, passed away unexpectantly on Friday, May 5, 2023.  He was 78 years old.

Jim was born on February 28, 1945, in Sewickley, PA.  Jim is a graduate of Rochester High School, class of 1963.  Jim’s life revolved around sports – he excelled at football, basketball, and baseball.  After high school, he went on to play football at Appalachian State College, Boone, NC.  Jim was invited to try out for the Pittsburgh Pirates. When Jim was no longer on the field as a player, he continued to express his love for the game as a coach. Jim coached his son in football, basketball and baseball and coached his daughters in softball.  Later in life, Jim could be found playing catch with his grandchildren with a smile on his face and took great pleasure in watching them succeed in their many different sporting events.  Jim was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan.

Sports aside, Jim’s heart was warmed with the many people in his life, always sharing stories and offering advice and looking to add more chairs to his table and increase the size of his circle.  Jim and his high school buddies met weekly for breakfast.  His laugh and his sneeze could be heard for miles and his smile was radiant and true.  Jim retired as a Boilermaker, Local 154, at age 55.  Jim also worked for US Filter and proudly served as a member of the Blackhawk School District Board of Directors.  Jim has enjoyed many amazing trips with family, around the world for the past several decades.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Helen Menosky Peel and brother, Robert Peel.

Jim will be deeply missed by his wife of 56 years, Maya and their children, James K. and Denise Peel of Hudson, Ohio and their children, Katie, James, and Colin.  Denise and Dennis Sloand of Mechanicsburg, PA and their children, Riley and Patrick.  Jennifer and Bob Kane of Wilmington, NC and their children, Connor and Carsyn.

Jim is survived by his brother, Charles Peel (Jane) of Falls Church, VA and Jim’s sisters-in-law, Patricia Feyka (Jeffrey) and Angela Franchi.  In addition, Jim is survived by his extended family, including several nieces and nephews and many cousins.

Family and friends will be received on Wednesday, May 10, 2023 from 5:00 – 8:00 PM at Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home, 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls.  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, May 11, 2023 at 10:00 AM at St. Monica Roman Catholic Church, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls.  Everyone is asked to please meet at church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made, in Jim’s name, to the charity of your choice.