Jim Palochik Jr.

John James “Jim” Palochik, 79, of Lower Burrell, died Christmas morning at home, surrounded by his loving family. Jim grew up in Arnold, PA, where he fostered close friendships that lasted throughout his entire life. Dear friends he made as a child joined him at his bedside to say their final goodbyes. Jim was fortunate to have built‑in friends growing up, his younger brothers, Larry and Bobby and his cousin, Vickie Jo. The brothers referred to themselves as Primo, Segundo, and Tercio. Growing up on Woodmont Ave with his brothers, cousins, and friends helped shape the man he would become.
Following his graduation from Saint Vincent College in 1967, Jim joined the U.S. Army, graduated from flight school, and began his service to his country in Vietnam. A highly decorated combat assault helicopter pilot, he achieved the rank of Captain,and carried immense pride in the role he played in Vietnam throughout the rest of his life. While receiving exceptional care at the VA Hospital in Pittsburgh, Jim was often asked about his military service. His family enjoyed hearing him speak about it with such honor. A natural storyteller, Jim frequently captivated his healthcare teams with his war stories.
Upon completing his military service, Jim began his career as a developer and construction manager in both Pennsylvania and Illinois, where he had a hand in crafting the skylines of Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and Chicago. His children fondly remember car rides through Pittsburgh when he would point and say, “I built that building.” Despite his dedication to his work, Jim always made time to indulge his love of reading, especially military history. He was often immersed in several books at once—on strategy, tactics, and the stories of those who served—and he never missed an opportunity to share what he learned with his family.
Jim had many loves in his life, the greatest of which was Karen, his wife of 52 years. Their love was truly special; simply watching them dance, prepare holiday meals together, or flip through photo albums from their travels brought joy to everyone around them. His children and grandchildren were his next great loves, and he cherished every moment spent with them. In his free time, Jim enjoyed cooking and playing golf with his friends. Food was his love language, and nothing made him happier than preparing delicious meals for the people he treasured most.
Jim was the beloved husband of his late wife, Karen and loving father of John James “Jimmy” Palochik (Nancy) of Pittsburgh and Susan Stegman (Ryan) of Shaler. Jim’s grandchildren lovingly called him “Poppy,” and he was blessed to have Laura, Dillon, and Christian at his side in his final hours. He was loved as a brother, brother-in-law, cousin, uncle, and nephew by family who will help to keep his memory alive. The friends and family Jim leaves behind will forever remember his booming voice, his larger‑than‑life personality, and his unwavering dedication to love and friendship. He will be missed. He will be remembered.

Friends will be received Saturday 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm and Sunday 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the GUINTA-BERTUCCI FUNERAL HOME INC., 1509 Fifth Avenue, Arnold PA 15068, JohnPaul Bertucci Owner/Supervisor.

Funeral Mass at Mt. St. Peter Church, 100 Freeport Rd, New Kensington on Monday, January 5th at 9:00 am.  Everyone attending please go directly to the church.  Burial with Full Military Funeral Honors will take place at 11:00 am at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies in Bridgeville, PA.

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