Melvin James Rearick

Melvin "James" Rearick, 67 of Apollo passed away peacefully at home on October 3, 2023.  He was born on February 12, 1956 in New Kensington to the late Melvin and Frances (Clever) Rearick.  Besides his parents, he was also preceded in death by his sister, Judy (Rearick) Fulton and his father and mother-in-law, Gordon and Peggy Adams who always considered Jim their son.  

Jim was diagnosed with lung cancer several years ago but never gave up the fight.  Up until a few weeks ago, he was determined he was going to win the battle, but unfortunately, the cancer just took him. 

Jim was a former employee of A.G. Mauro Company in RIDC Park and was also employed by numerous fire departments, New Kensington EMS from 1993-2021, East Deer/Springdale EMS, and his last job was with Saxonburg EMS.  He was also a volunteer fireman at New Kensington Fire Department #5 from 1980-1984.  Ambulance Service.  Jim was the Chief Emeritus and Life Member of Markle Volunteer Fire Department and served for over 40 years as a volunteer firefighter and in numerous other capacities including Fire Chief and Chief Officer for over a decade.  Jim's personable and kind-hearted personality and friendship will be missed by so many.  He had an unwavering dedication and selflessness to his community.  He always took the time to offer a handshake and to join in a conversation with anyone he met.  If the fire bells went off, Jim was normally the first one at the fire hall - it helped too that he only lived across the street from the firehall.  Debbie understood that it was a priority for Jim to be there - he never would hesitate to get to a fire regardless of where he was or how he was feeling.  

Jim and Debbie were married for 45 years and had many great memories together but they wanted to make more with their sons, daughter-in-laws, and granddaughters.  Jim loved his family very much and was so proud of his sons and what they have done with their lives.  He was happy that he was able to see Matt get married to the love of his life, Sara, and that meant the world to Jim. He was able to see Mike and Jen show him the true meaning of joy and love and that was in his cherished granddaughters, Maddie and Luna.  Jim was constantly face-timing them just to see their faces, to hear their giggles, and to give them virtual hugs and kisses.  His face would always light up when he saw them.  He would do whatever he could to let them know they were loved.  Even though their Pap won't be there physically, Debbie will make sure all they have to do is look up in the clouds and stars and they will see him and he will protect them no matter what.  

As for his "brothers" in the fire company, he had a bond that those men and women will cherish forever.  When they said they had his "back", they truly meant it.  Over the years, Debbie went on many fire calls with Jim as they may have been out somewhere and the alarm would go off.  It didn't matter where they were, but Jim wanted to make sure he was there to see that his "brothers" would be okay.  He loved each and every one of them and loved the fact that they all made a difference in someone's lives.  Jim set a standard that inspired all who ever had the privilege of serving alongside of him.  

Along with being a fire fighter and EMT, Jim painted and repaired cars in his spare time.  If he wasn't out fighting fires or transporting patients, you could find him in his garage at all hours of the night helping someone with their car.  

Jim is survived by his wife, Debbie (Adams) Rearick, his sons, Michael (Jennifer) Rearick of Davenport, FL and Matt (Sara) Rearick of Allegheny Township.  Also surviving him are his cherished granddaughters, Maddie and Luna Rearick of Florida.  Jim is survived also by numerous brother and sisters-in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

Friends will be received on Saturday, October 7 from 11-2 and 4-8 in the Giunta-Bertucci Funeral Home, Inc., 1509 Fifth Avenue, Arnold, JohnPaul Bertucci, Owner/Supervisor.  Burial will be private.  

 In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to:  Markle Volunteer Fire Department, 470 Joyce Street, Apollo PA 15613.

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