James T. Distler

James T. Distler , 80, of 126 Edward Road, St. Marys, died on Tuesday, March 31, 2015 at his home following an illness of the past several months.

He was born on May 22, 1934, a son of the late Wallace "Boobie" and Florence Taylor Distler.

On November 15, 1958 in St. Marys Church, he married Joan Gabler Distler, who survives.

Jim was a lifelong resident of the area and graduated from SMAHS, class of 1953.  He then served in the US Air Force as a Classifications Specialist with the 6486 Air Based Group, where he served overseas for 3 years.  He attended the DuBois Business College and received a degree in Accounting and Business Administration and retired from Airco-Speer after more than 25 years of service.  He was a life member of the American Legion, VFW, CMF, PFL and the Elks.  Jim served on all levels of government throughout his life, having been a Township Supervisor from 1975-1983, Chairman of the Board for 5 years, County VA Director for 4 years and also with the PA House of Representatives.  He was honored with the prestigious award of the Chapel of the Four Chaplains and was a member of the St. Marys Servicemens Burial Detail.  He enjoyed playing cards, golfing, going to camp, and spending time with his family.

In addition to his wife of more than 56 years, Joan Gabler Distler, he is survived by 3 sons, James (Brenda) Distler of Kersey, Thomas (Karen) Distler of Palm Bay, FL, Frank (Lynn) Distler of Essex Junction, VT, a daughter, Diane (Jack) Seelye of St. Marys, 9 grandchildren and 1 great granddaughter.  He is also survived by a brother, Ronald (Julie) Distler of Maryland, 2 sisters-in-law, Carmella Distler of New York and Doris Distler of Illinois and by a brother-in-law, Tony Caggeso of New York.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Wallace and William Distler and by a sister, Lavonne "Bonnie" Caggeso.

A Mass of Christian Burial for James T. Distler will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 7, 2015, at 10:00 AM at St. Marys Church, Church St., St. Marys with Rev. Alfred Patterson, OSB, officiating.
Military Honors will be accorded by the St. Marys Servicemen's Burial Detail.
Interment will follow in St. Marys Catholic Cemetery.

Visitation will be held at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home on Monday, April 6, 2015 from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the St. Marys Servicemen's Burial Detail, 168 Center St., St. Marys, PA or to the Community Nurses / Community Nurses Hospice, 757 Johnsonburg Rd., Suite 200, St. Marys, PA 15857.

Lynch-Green Funeral Home, 151 N. Michael St., St. Marys, is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be made to the family at www.lynchgreenfuneralhome.com