James R. Salvaggio

SALVAGGIO---James R., 85, East Taylor Township, passed away on February 16, 2022 at Richland Woods. Born December 23, 1936, in Johnstown, son of Charles and Mary (Varatto) Salvaggio. Preceded in death by parents; first wife, MaryAnn (Andrews) who died in 1991, second wife, Rose (Yakemic) Salvaggio who died in 2020 and special uncle Sam. Survived by children, James R. (Janice); Marie (John); and Robert J. (Andrea); 3 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. Brother of Charles “Bud” Salvaggio (Kathy) and Joanne Democko (Mike) and numerous nieces and nephews. Also survived by stepchildren, Todd (Kim) and Mark. Preceded in death by stepson, Scott. Survived by 3 step-grandchildren and 6 step-great-grandchildren. Jim was a 1955 graduate of East Conemaugh High School, where he played basketball. He owned Jim’s Barber Shop in East Conemaugh where he was a barber for 55 years. He was known as a people person and in addition to a haircut, many of his customers enjoyed just hanging out at the shop and eating homemade cookies baked by his wife, Rose. Jim was great at telling jokes and stories. He also owned Jim’s Bar, where people came from all around to enjoy their family pizza recipe. Most of all, Jim truly loved his family and spending time with them. He was always there to offer great advice. Member of St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church, Woodvale. Lifetime member of the Conemaugh Independence Fire Company. He was a referee for PIAA along with his wife, MaryAnn and they were the first husband and wife referees in the state of Pennsylvania. Jim enjoyed playing tennis, ping pong, pool and golfing. He also enjoyed dancing and music and particularly listening to Jerry Vale. The family will receive friends from 8:30 until 11:00 a.m. Monday at Baker-Harris Funeral Chapel 229-231 First Street, Conemaugh, followed by Funeral Mass at 11:30 a.m. Monday at St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church, Woodvale, with Rev. James F. Crookston. Committal, St. Anthony’s Cemetery, Geistown. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests Memorial contributions to the Michael J. Fox Foundation at www.michaeljfox.org to assist with Parkinson’s Disease research in memory of James R. Salvaggio. Online condolences may be posted at www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.