James M. Popovich, 74, of New Castle passed away the afternoon of January 5, 2021 at UPMC Jameson. Born on September 22, 1946 in New Castle, he was the son of the late James D. and Anna Burda Popovich. On September 7, 1968 Jim married his beloved wife of fifty- two years, the former Lois E. Soupart. She survives at home.
Jim was a talented Athlete and continues to hold several records as a running back at Ben Franklin Jr. high School. In the early years, Jim was an avid softball player. He played for the Iron Dukes softball team and had been inducted into the Lawrence County Sports Hall of Fame, and the American Softball Association of Pa. Hall of Fame. He was an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates and also a Pitt fan. Jim was a member the Fraternal Order of Eagles #455 and Duca Degli Abruzzi Club.
Jim worked for the City of New Castle in Code Enforcement, having been the Director and Building Inspector before he retired. He was a member of Holy Spirit Parish. A loving husband, father and grandfather, Jim enjoyed attending all of his children and grandchildren’s sports events and school activities. Jim was very well known and loved in the New Castle community and will certainly be missed by his family and friends.
In addition to his wife, Jim is survived by his son, Brian Popovich and fiancé, Erin Micco, of New Castle, daughter, Stacie Harmon and her husband, Gary, of Mt. Jackson, 3 grandchildren, Caden Popovich, Tristin Harmon and Elizabeth Harmon and also Vincent, Joey and Nicholas Micco, whom he considered his grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his cousins that he considered his siblings, James M. Popovich, Frank Popovich, Julieanne Zwierzynski and Robert Popovich.
Family and Friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Church of Holy Spirit Parish. Father Joseph McCaffrey will officiate.
Due to the current health crisis within our community, Visitors are asked to adhere to CDC guidelines regarding the wearing face masks and practicing social distancing. Burial will be in Parkside Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ed & Don DeCarbo Funeral Home & Crematory, 941 South Mill St.