James W Kitko

He was born on February 11, 1935 in Clearfield, the son of the late Stephen and Pearl (Heberling) Kitko.

James was an avid hunter, outdoorsman, woodsman, and mechanic. He was nicknamed "Cannonball Kitko” due to habitually and gleefully speeding down Rockton Mt. James was a talented gardener and woodworker. He was a devoted family man and was loved dearly by his cats and family.

James retired from the United States Air Force in 1974 as an Aircraft and Engine Mechanic and Flight line Supervisor.

After his retirement from the Air Force James worked as an equipment operator for Harbison and Walker Refractories until 1983; North American Refractories as a press operator until 1986 and lastly Clearfield Co. Investigators.

James is survived by his three children: Cameron James Kitko of Punxsatawney, Walter James Kitko of Brookville, and Rachel Elizabeth Kitko of Austin, TX; three grandchildren and six great grandchildren; and four siblings: Howard Kitko of Morrisdale, Doris Saunders of Hampton, VA, Sharon Stoops of Hampton, VA, and Peggy Schock of Hampton, VA.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Paula (Paterson) Kitko; his daughter Greta Kalk; his siblings Allen Kitko, Stephen Kitko, William Kitko, Clara Kitko, Jane McLaughlin, and Mary Jane Rowles, and an infant brother.

A funeral service will be held at 11am on Saturday, October 2, 2021 with Pastor John White officiating at the Bennett and Houser Funeral Home, Inc. Burial will be in Crown Crest Memorial Park - Styers Cemetery, Hyde, PA full military honors will be accorded by members of the Joint Base Andrews Honor Guard 316 Force Support Squadron.

The family will receive friends on Saturday from 10am until the hour of services at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to Orphans of the Storm: www.orphansofthestorm-pa.org

To send online tributes please go to www.bennettandhouser.com or www.mem.com