James E. Blough Jr.

BLOUGH--James E. Jr., 72, Richland Twp., was received by his Lord and Savior on Friday, May 29, 2020.  Born February 18, 1948, in Johnstown; son of the late James E. Blough, Sr., and the late Kathryn B. (Trostle) (Blough) Williams, both of Johnstown. Survived by children James E. Blough, III (partner Kimberely Fox) and Kari J. Blough-Smith (Erin Smith), all of Johnstown; significant other, Roxane Melius, Johnstown; grandchildren, Elisha "E.J." and Ella Smith; sister, Marilyn Clutter (Edward), Pittsburgh; nephew David Clutter, Erie. Preceded in death by parents and wife, Debra J. (Varner) Blough. Jim ("Domer" as he was affectionately called, and "Jeddy" by his loving cousins) graduated from Richland Twp. High School in 1967.  He participated in football, baseball, basketball, track and wrestling, and was a member of Key Club, Rifle Club, and Student Council. After high school graduation, Jim headed to Pittsburgh with his two friends since childhood, Brian Caldwell and Jim Livella for education in their fields of interest.  Jim pursued studies in drafting. In 1970 (until 1976), he joined the U.S. Army National Guard and completed basic training in Ft. Dix, N.J., with his new military friend, Donald Varner.  Jim and Don showed exceptional quickness and strength in physical training tests, earning them top scores.  Their friendship led to Jim meeting Don's young sister Debbie, who later became Jim's wife and mother to their 2 children. Jim had a long, satisfying career at Conemaugh Generating Station (formerly Penelec) in New Florence.  He received plaques of recognition for his years of contribution.  After retirement in 2008, he continued to work in the same field until November of 2019. Through the years, an annual highlight of Jim's family and friends were the Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter feasts that he and his loving companion, Roxane, prepared.  There would be many vegetable side dishes, pastas, salads, various meats and desserts--and a wonderful celebration was always had by all. Putting in and tending his garden through the summer gave Jim much enjoyment, and the harvest was always worthy of the work.  He took much pleasure having trucks throughout the years...the latest from 6 months ago, a blue Ford F-150--'always a Ford'!  A few years ago, Jim had a precious 'Son and Dad Time' when he drove and accompanied his aged and ailing Dad to an out-of-state WWII Army veterans reunion.  His Dad was never able to attend any of the reunions, but he wanted to go to at least one...and his son was the one who took him.  He will be missed and remembered for his generosity, ready smile, proclivity for good-natured kidding, and his gentle kindness.  He thought first of others' comfort and convenience. Jim lived his life as reflected in I John 4:19. "We love because He first loved us." Thank you to the many friends and family for prayers, caring thoughts, loving  cards and gifts of food.  And also, a grateful thank you to the staff at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center and Crichton Rehab Center for their extraordinary care. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, June 7, and from 10 a.m. until time of Funeral service at 11 a.m., Monday at the Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland, with Pastor Daniel Rhodes officiating. Entombment, Richland Mausoleum, with military graveside rites by Menoher VFW, Post #155. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a VFW post of choice, or to the Richland Twp. Fire Dept., 1321 Scalp Ave., Johnstown PA 15904. Online condolences may be posted at www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.