JAMES F. KAMINSKI

James F. Kaminski, 80, of Hanover Township, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 10, 2024 at Allied Skilled Nursing Facility on Meade Street, Wilkes-Barre, surrounded by his family. 

Born in Hanover Township, he was the son of the late Stephen F. and Catherine Conrad Kaminski. Jim was a graduate of Hanover High School and a proud Hawkeye for life. For many years after High School he worked for the Railroad in Philadelphia, PA. He served his country proudly in the United States Navy, during Vietnam and was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal. 

He married the love of his life, Barbara Gangaware in 1974.

He attended King's College, taking night classes, and obtained a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. He was hired as a Corrections Officer at S.C.I. Dallas, later becoming a Counselor, and holding that position until he retired in 2008. Jim had a passion for renovation and was self-employed as a general contractor for many years. He worked hard to rebuild homes in the Hanover Twp area after the flood of 72’.

 He was a member of Firwood United Methodist Church, Wilkes-Barre. He was a long-time fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates and in summer months could be seen quite often wearing a Roberto Clemente shirt. Any other time of the year you would be sure to spot him in Green Bay Packers Attire, proudly telling anyone that he'd been a fan since 1962 and was also a shareholder. Always one to keep up with current events, he read the paper and watched the news daily. He loved getting a cup of coffee and taking a ride to see what was going on in the neighborhood and other nearby areas. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Barbara Gangaware Kaminski of 46 years, and his brother, Richard Kaminski.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, sons James S. (Jeanne Hillard) Kaminski, Scott Kaminski; daughters Erica (Christopher) Walker, Andrea (Timothy) Viti; three grandchildren Bryce and Evelyn Viti, and Delaney Walker; siblings, Carol Swiatek, Steven Kaminski, Pamela Walsh, Gregory Kaminski, Mark Kaminski; nieces and nephews.

The family extends their gratitude and heartfelt thanks to Allied Skilled Nursing Facility, especially the 4th Floor. The kindness and empathy given to Dad and to us when we needed it most, did not go unnoticed nor will it soon be forgotten.

Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, November 16, 2024. Friends may visit beginning at 930am with services starting at 1030am, Firwood United Methodist Church, 399 Old River Road, Wilkes-Barre. Interment will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, with military honors.

Arrangements under the direction of the Lehman Family Funeral Service, Inc. Wilkes-Barre. 

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