James Elliot Stald

Born on May 25, 1948, in DuBois, PA, Jim lived a life defined by service, sacrifice, loyalty, and love for his family and friends. He proudly served 23 years in the United States Army with the Intelligence and Security Command, including two tours and 19 months in Vietnam. His military service reflected the strength, discipline, and dedication that would continue to define him throughout his life.

Before his military career, Jim was an accomplished athlete and gymnast. He attended Pennsbury High School, where he was part of the 1965-1966 State Championship gymnastics team and held the school record for consecutive backflips across a 40-foot gym mat. His athleticism, determination, and competitive spirit were evident early in life and stayed with him through every chapter that followed.

On November 14, 1970, Jim married the love of his life, Laurie (Getz) Stald, and together they built a remarkable 55½-year marriage filled with adventure, resilience, and unwavering commitment to one another. Throughout his military career and beyond, they created homes and memories in many places, including Germany, Virginia, Maryland, Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Hawaii, and finally landing in the Midwest. No matter where life took them, family was always at the center.

After retiring from the Army, Jim continued his strong work ethic and passion for people by becoming the General Manager at Miller Time Bowl, where he combined his love for bowling with his lifelong commitment to leadership, hard work, and community.

Jim was a proud father to his two sons, James J. Stald of Davenport, Iowa, and Edward (Terrie) Stald of Belleville, Illinois. He was also an incredibly proud grandfather to Baylie and Grant Stald, and step-grandson Ty, all of whom brought him tremendous joy and pride.

Jim is also survived by his brother- and sister-in-law, Joe and Linda Getz; his nephew, Mike Getz; and his siblings, Cheryl Petrino, Deb Waiter, and Susan Stald, along with many extended family members and lifelong friends who will deeply miss him.

His legacy will live on through the lessons he taught, the values he instilled, and the family he loved so deeply. Jim will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always honored.

Visitation and funeral services will be held at Runge Mortuary on Friday, May 22, beginning with visitation at 10:00 a.m., followed immediately by funeral services. Burial with military honors will take place at Rock Island Arsenal National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Jim would have appreciated donations being made to Wounded Warrior Project through a memorial page created in his honor: Wounded Warrior Memorial Donation Page https://do.nr/9zodv9cs

Jim’s stories, humor, wisdom, and quiet strength will stay with us forever.

The world lost a good man, but our family lost someone irreplaceable. We love you, Dad. We love you, Brother. We love you, PaPa. Thank you for everything.