James Allen Dolnack

James Allen Dolnack, 86, of Oviedo, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, April 21, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born in 1938, and as a young man, he proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, which began a lifelong commitment to public service through a distinguished career in law enforcement. As a resident of Hopewell Township, he served for many years on the Hopewell Police Department. His dedication and skill led him to advance to the role of Beaver County Detective and, eventually, to serve as a Special Deputy U.S. Marshal Court Security Officer at the U.S. Federal Courthouse in Orlando, Florida. Throughout his career, Jim received numerous awards and recognitions—each one a testament to his integrity, courage, and unwavering dedication to protecting others.

Jim’s interests helped define the incredible man he was. He loved family get-togethers (and there were many!), watching Fox News, hunting, cowboy movies, traveling, and a good shot and a beer. Anyone who knew him knew how much he loved his little red Camaro. Not to mention how he LOVED to tell his stories! And of course, his pride in being a Marine never faded for a moment. He shared all of these passions with his children and grandchildren, leaving behind memories and a lasting legacy of love, loyalty, and laughter.

Jim will be missed immensely. He was the “go-to” when life got tough—the calm in the chaos and a steady source of comfort for his family and friends. He was someone everyone could rely on. A straight shooter to the core, Jim always spoke his mind honestly, never judged, and his advice was as solid as his word. He gave 110% in everything he did and never backed down from doing what was right. And beneath that tough Marine exterior was a jokester who loved to make people laugh—his quick wit and playful spirit could light up any room. Because of Jim, his loved ones carry the hearts of lions and an unshakable bond of family love.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Rose Dolnack, his sister, Francis (Fred) Wells, and his brother, Thomas (Laura) Dolnack. He is survived by his beautiful wife of 61 years, Joann Panella Dolnack, his five children, Jim (Debi), Lisa Dolnack Hanson (Scott), Mark, Mary Beth, and Jeffrey (Maria), 15 grandchildren, Ryan (Kayla), Arika, Dominick (Mikayla), Samantha, Andy, Grant, Mason, Jack, Liz, Ashton, Zachary, Ivanna, and Matthew, and 2 great-grandchildren, Charlotte and Francesca.

A viewing will be held at Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Chapel in Oviedo, Florida, on Tuesday, April 29, from 5 – 8 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will follow on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at noon at Most Precious Blood Catholic Church in Oviedo, Florida.

A visitation will be held at 9:00 AM on Saturday, May 3, at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Hopewell Township, Pennsylvania, followed by a Mass of Celebration. Interment with full military honors will take place at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Comfort Keepers for their dedicated care and compassion throughout Jim’s illness. Your kindness did not go unnoticed. A heartfelt thanks to Caroline, Cody Ann, and Kelly for the warmth, support, and comfort you gave so generously during some of the hardest days—your presence meant so much, and we are forever grateful.

Semper Fi, Brother!