James Edward Bongardt, Sr.

Born in Baltimore, MD, Jim was a lifelong resident of the Baltimore area where he graduated from Mount Washington School, Loyola High School, and Loyola College. He obtained his Bachelors in Pre-Med at Loyola College. After marrying his wife Jean, they settled in Fallston, MD. He held various management positions in his career as a chemist. Employed by Seagrams, M&T Chemical, and Bingham. Last, he retired after 20 years as the manager of chemical and mechanical testing labs at Avesta Sheffield (formerly Eastern Stainless Steel).

Jim lived a full life. His strong Catholic faith and love of family were apparent to everyone. He and Jean loved to travel stateside and abroad. Their travels took them to many countries in Europe and Egypt. After retiring Jim spent his time enjoying the sport he loved the most, golf. He worked as a ranger and pro shop assistant at Geneva Farm Golf Course and Wetlands Golf Club. He had a passion for reading and in his later years, he read all the time – suggesting books to others and reading books suggested to him. Most of all he enjoyed being around people, talking to them about his grandchildren and sharing his words of wisdom.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife Jeannette Bongardt, his parents Dr. Henry Bongardt and Marion Bongardt, as well as brothers Dr. Henry Bongardt, Jr. and Robert Bongardt.

He is survived by his children James Bongardt, Jr. and his wife Carol, Charles Bongardt and his wife Donna Sue, Susan Horn and her husband Dr. Gordon Horn, and five grandchildren Andrew and Megan Bongardt, Nicholas Horn, and Alexander and Coleman Bongardt.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather at Schimunek Funeral Home of Bel Air on Friday, September 30, 2022 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Saturday, October 1, 2022 at 10:00 AM at Saint Ursula Catholic Church, 8801 Harford Rd., Parkville, MD 21234. A committal service will follow at Holy Rosary Cemetery, 7305 German Hill Road, Dundalk, MD 21222.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Little Sisters of the Poor, St. Martin's Home, 601 Maiden Choice Lane, Catonsville, MD 21228. Online condolences may be left at www.schimunekfuneralhomes.com