Jacob S. "Jack" "Jake" Hritz

HRITZ---Jacob S. Jr. "Jack," "Jake," 81, Windber, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on May 5, 2024 while surrounded by his loving family. Born June 7, 1942, in Lilly, PA. He was the first of seven children born to Jacob S. Sr. and Pauline C. (Siedlarczyk) Hritz. Preceded in death by parents; sister, Susan Hritz and granddaughter, Heather Drummond. Survived by wife of 54 years, Janice E. (Reed), whom he married April 18, 1970; children, Jeffrey (Judy), Johnstown; Jason (Dawn), Greensburg; grandchildren, Lola (Scott), Michelle (Dylan), Jeffrey Jr., Kimberly, Kayla, Tiffany (Nick) and Greyson; 16 great-grandchildren. Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Brother of Ron (Pat), Alfred (Donna), Mike (Lucy), Lois and John (LeAnn). Jack was a 1960 graduate of Johnstown Catholic High School. He received an associate's degree from Cambria Rowe and received his bachelor's degree in business from St. Francis University. He was a US Army veteran having served at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. He joined Penelec as a mail clerk and retired from service there after 39 years as an accountant. After retirement, Jake worked at Ideal Market in Geistown for nearly 15 years. Member of Emmanuel Church. Jack was a avid Pittsburgh sports fan, especially the Pittsburgh Panthers. He enjoyed collecting Charlie Brown memorabilia and watching NASCAR. He was a Jeff Gordon fan. Jack enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He chased after them and that brought out the kid in Jack. He enjoyed attending Ethan and Bailey's Johnstown Warrior hockey games at the War Memorial. He shared his love of trains with his grandson, Greyson. And Jack saved change to take Greyson through the car wash which Greyson always looked forward to. He had a great love of chocolate and anything sweet in nature. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland and again from Noon until time of Funeral Service at 1 p.m. Friday at the funeral home with Pastor David Streets officiating. Military graveside rites by Windber VFW, Post #4795. Entombment, Richland Cemetery. At Jack's request, there will be a bagpiper and drummer playing at the cemetery. The family would like to thank the physicians, nurses and staff at the Memorial Medical Center ICU 6 Rose and the 10 Ashman Palliative Floor for their compassionate care of Jack. Online condolences may be posted at www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.