James A. Wehner's Obituary
James “Jim” Alphonse Wehner, age 89 of Whitehall Borough, PA (formerly of Johnstown, PA), passed away peacefully on July 27, 2020.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Mary Margaret “Butch” (Brutscher) Wehner. Cherished Father of David Wehner, Teri (Mark) Savolskis, Peter (Ellie) Wehner, and Amy Susan Lentz. Adored Grandfather of Kurt Wehner, Alea (Jeff) Varner and Jaclyn Savolskis and Great-Grandfather of Rocky Bobak and Ruby White.
Jim is also survived by his sister Lois Kuzbel and nephew Jeff (Maribeth) Kuzbel. He was preceded in death by his parents Alphonse and Mary (Hirsch) Wehner.
While growing up in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, Jim attended St. Patrick’s School and Central Catholic High School. He went on to attend St. Vincent College in Latrobe, graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1953. Jim then served in the United States Marine Corp on active duty during the Korean War. After his military service, he moved to Pittsburgh and married Butch. At that time, he also began his professional career as an Industrial Engineer at US Steel Clairton Works where he was employed for 38 years.
An avid lover of music, he spent many years performing with choral groups including The Entertainers and the South Hills Chorale. He also used his musical talents to entertain his children and grandchildren, particularly on long car rides and birthdays. He was an active member of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church where he could often be found calling BINGO on Tuesday nights or at Senior events later in life. He also spent his time reading, playing cards, bowling and golfing.
Jim enjoyed traveling and created numerous memories for his family through annual vacations and weekend getaways. Whether a beach vacation to Stone Harbor, New Jersey or a weekend in Gettysburg, family travel was always remarkable. During retirement, Jim and Butch found much joy traveling together extensively in the United States and abroad. He made many happy memories for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren as well including summer swimming in the backyard pool, learning to play Chopsticks on the piano, catching bugs and frogs, and body surfing in the ocean.
Throughout his life, Jim remained a dedicated alumnus and was active in the events of St. Vincent College, a place which was very dear to his heart.
In consideration of the current health restrictions, the family has chosen celebrate Jim’s life privately. Preparations have been entrusted to the JEFFERSON MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, INC., 301 Curry Hollow Road, 15236. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, July 31, 2020 at 10 o’clock in the morning at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church, One Grove Place, Pittsburgh, PA 15236. Those wishing to honor Jim’s life may do so by making a donation in his name to St. Vincent College, 300 Fraser Purchase Road, Latrobe, PA 15650. Website: stvincent.edu
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