James A. "Jim" "Jimmy" Neitz, 77, passed away on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville after a short illness.

He was born on Dec. 12, 1947, in Schuylkill County and was adopted by Arthur and Mary (Sulouff) Neitz when he was 5 years old. Jim lived on the family farm for the rest of his life.

He married Jean (Mummey) Neitz, who survives. His passing breaks a marital union of 56 years.

Jim was a 1967 graduate of Shikellamy High School where he wrestled and was a Boy Scout.

Mr. Neitz was a lifetime member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Ridge Road, where he served as a former church council president.

He was employed with Wilson Manufacturing and at the age of 21 ran for Point Township supervisor, which he won and eventually became roadmaster. Jim retired from the township after many years of service and was a former president of Northumberland County Association of Township Officers. He then started his own business, Neitz General Hauling.

Mr. Neitz was a member of many local organizations and served his community, eventually winning the Pineknotter of The Year award in 2011. His memberships included Norry Gun Club, Point Township Fire Co., Northumberland Hook and Ladder, Liberty Township Fire Co., Sons of The American Legion, Gare De Pas Cooties, Northumberland, and served on the Northumberland swimming pool committee.

Jim was also known to play Santa Claus at the Point Township Fire Company or whenever someone requested him to do so.

In addition to his wife, Jim is survived by three sons and one daughter-in-law, James A. Neitz Jr., Jeremy and Allison Neitz, Joseph Neitz; grandchildren, Zachary and Corey Leiby, Jacob Neitz, Ashley Zeiber, Shawn Neidig and Katrina Ressler, great-grandchildren, Kayden, Hunter and Jaxton Neitz and Mason Leiby who was his daily companion.

He was preceded in death by one son, Jonathan and one grandson, Justin.

A viewing will be held from 6:00pm to 8:00pm on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1092 Ridge Road, Northumberland and again from 10:00am to 11:00am on Thursday followed by funeral services at 11:00am with Pastor Kenneth R. Elkin officiating.

Burial will follow in Northumberland Memorial Park, Stonington.

Contributions in Jim's memory may be made to his church, Trinity Lutheran Church, 1092 Ridge Road, Northumberland, PA 17857 or to the charity of the donors choice.

Arrangements are by the Joseph W. Epler Funeral Home, 210 King Street, Northumberland.