James C. Karafa

 KARAFA – James C., 90, of Johnstown, died October 26, 2019, at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center. Born June 6, 1929, in Johnstown the son of John and Anna (Tertinsky) Karafa. Preceded in death by his parents; wife, Margaret C. (Cerula) Karafa; brothers, Donald and Robert Karafa; and sister-in-law, Betty Karafa. Survived by his children: Deborah, wife of Philip Schmalzried, Erie; Gregory, married to Myong Son (Kim), Korea; and Karen Karafa and significant other, Ignacio Ruiz, VA. Grandchildren: James (Rachel) Schmalzried; Diana (Andrew Hendrickson) Schmalzried; Joanne (Tim) Krahe; Brian (Courtlyn) Schmalzried; Scott Schmalzried; and Jennifer Karafa; brothers, Frank and Jerry (Joyce) Karafa; and sister, Dorothy (Edward) Muldowney; sister-in-law, Lavada Karalfa. Also survived by special friend, Mary Kay Pcola. James was a member of St. Clement Catholic Church and a US Army Veteran of the Korean War. He was retired from the US Post Office. He enjoyed line dancing, dancing Polkas, taking bus trips to casinos and taking exercise classes at the Windber Senior Center where he enjoyed spending time. He loved the theater and would go to the Mt. Playhouse, Johnstown Symphony and Arcadia Theater. He also enjoyed dining at various restaurants around the area.  Friends will be received from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at the Francis G. Ozog Funeral Home, Inc., 710 Broad Street where vigil service will be held. Funeral Mass will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday at St. Clement Catholic Church, Fr. William E. Rosenbaum officiating. Committal will be held at Grandview Cemetery Mausoleum with military honors by Conemaugh Valley Detachment #287 Marine Courps League.  

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