Lewis Donald “Don” James died Thursday morning at University of Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia. He was surrounded by his closest family. He was 72. His wife of 47 years, Kathy Kurilla, died in 2016.
Born in Scranton to the late David James and Josephine Ross, Don resided in Olyphant most of his life. He served as president of Olyphant’s Excelsior Hose Company No. 1 in the early 1990s, was an active leader in scouting with Pack 73 in Throop and Troop 322 in Dickson City, and was a lifelong musician, playing drums in area bands for six decades.
Don was a loving and devoted father and grandfather who enjoyed golfing and watching the Phillies with his children and grandsons.
Don is survived by a daughter, Lisa Rissinger and her husband, Mike, of Jessup; a son, Donald James and his wife, Stacy Buchanan; five grandsons, Daulton, Griffin and Quinn Rissinger, Liam Buchanan and Donovan James; one sister, Terri Jo Ross; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He is also survived by his loving companion of three years, Nancy Gallina.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, David “Skip” James and Danny Salzmann.
A memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 1, at the First United Presbyterian Church of Lackawanna Valley, 1557 Main St., Peckville, PA, 18452. Friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. at the church.
Burial will take place at the convenience of the family in Dunmore Cemetery.
For online condolences, please visit www.hudak-osheafuneralhome.com.
Friday, April 1, 2022
5:00 - 7:00 pm (Eastern time)
First United Presbyterian Church of Lackawanna Valley
Friday, April 1, 2022
Starts at 7:00 pm (Eastern time)
First United Presbyterian Church of Lackawanna Valley
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