Jim Plahitko Sr.

“Jim” was born to John Andrew Plahitko and Mary Margaret (Potiseck) Plahitko on February 6, 1930, in Duquesne, Pennsylvania, and a few years later was relocated, along with the rest of the growing family, to a house his father John had built in Darragh, Pennsylvania, where Jim spent much of his primary and elementary years learning to farm and care for livestock, and riding his beloved horse, Joe, until the family later moved again; this time to Indianapolis, Indiana. On September 3, 1947, Jim married Hazel Evelyn Shaw, with whom he shared 51 beautiful years until her passing in 1999. Together, they lovingly raised three children: sons Alvin Ray (1949) and James William, Jr. (1955), and daughter Linda Charlene (1958). After Hazel's passing, Jim found companionship again, with Kathy Pierson, née McBee, whom he wed on September 30, 2000 and shared 20 years of marriage with until her death in 2020.

Jim's educational journey took him to Frankfort Pilgrim College in the mid-1940s, which laid the foundation for his deep faith and life of service. His career as a heavy equipment mechanic culminated in a fulfilling tenure at Citizens Gas & Coke Utility, from which he retired in 1990. Retirement, however, was merely the beginning of a new chapter; Jim's passion for woodcraft led him to create and restore beautiful pieces that will be cherished for generations. Beyond his professional life, Jim worshiped at West Morris Street Free Methodist Church in Indianapolis, where he touched many lives through Tough Love ministry, and later attended Meridian Church of God, also in Indianapolis, before returning to Catholicism as a parishioner at Holy Name Catholic Church in Beech Grove, Indiana.

Jim's hobbies reflected his creativity and ingenuity. Whether it was "tinkering" in his garage, building a Model T “hot rod” in the early 1970s, or constructing a new kitchen for the family home, Jim's hands were always busy bringing ideas to life. His garage was a place of wonder, where family and friends could witness the transformation of raw materials into works of art.

Those who knew Jim will fondly remember his "Jim isms," his acute memory, and the stories he shared with vivid details. His commanding presence was matched only by his tender heart, encapsulating years of wisdom that he generously imparted to anyone fortunate enough to listen. Jim was always ready to lend a helping hand, embodying the spirit of community and selflessness.

Jim is survived by sister Eleanor Calvert (Jerry, deceased), son James William, Jr (Vicki), daughter Linda Charlene Gosnell, and daughter-in-law Mary Ann Worrell (Alvin Ray Plahitko, deceased), He also leaves behind a loving legacy in his 17 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren, who will carry forward his memory and teachings. He was predeceased by his parents John and Mary, brothers John and Robert (Wanda, deceased), sister Dorothy (Gary, deceased) Wallace, and son Alvin (Mary Ann), whose memories he cherished dearly.

A tribute to Jim's life will be held at 1pm on April 15, 2026, at Little & Sons Funeral Home in Beech Grove, Indiana. Family and friends are invited to gather and celebrate the life of a man who touched so many through his kindness, craftsmanship, and unwavering love.

On behalf of Jim, his granddaughter, Lee Plahitko, would like to thank the past and present staff at PACE and Altenheim Family-First Senior Living for their many years of care and companionship.