James R. Scharrer

James (Jim) Robert Scharrer, age 49, passed away far too soon on Monday, March 30, 2026 following a brave and courageous battle against cancer. Jim was a devoted husband, adored father, loved son and brother, and dear friend to so many.

Jim was born on November 5, 1976 in Erie, PA and resided in Pittsburgh, PA for the past ten years. Jim was preceded in death by his father James F. Scharrer. He is survived by his wife Jennifer (Colicchio) Scharrer, daughters Rachel and Lauren, his proud mother Barbara (Kobylinski) Scharrer, sister Janet Scharrer, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws and nephews.

Jim lived a unique and accomplished life! He was a highly accoladed two-sport athlete in baseball and football at Erie Cathedral Prep High School, earning several city and state-wide recognition awards in both sports. Jim was offered a full baseball scholarship to Clemson University however he entered professional baseball after being drafted in the second round by the Atlanta Braves, playing in the minor leagues for six seasons. He then accepted a full football scholarship from Duke University and graduated early with his Bachelor's degree in three years. Jim was recognized for his athletic accomplishments by induction in both the Cathedral Prep and Erie Sports Hall of Fame awards, and with retirement of Jim's jersey #44 by Prep's baseball team.

Jim began his professional career in Washington D.C. working in Acquisitions as a civilian for the U.S. Navy's Naval Sea Systems Command for over ten years, while earning his Master's degree from The George Washington University. After moving to Pittsburgh, Jim began working for Progeny Systems Corporation to support the Department of Defense. Progeny later merged with General Dynamics Mission Systems, and in his most recent role, Jim served as their Director of Supply Chain for Maritime and Strategic Systems. Jim loved his job, the field he worked in, and was grateful for the support of GDMS and his colleagues, especially during the past few months.

Jim has been married to his high school sweetheart for over 20 years and were together for over 32 years. They lived in North Carolina and the Washington DC Metro area before settling down to raise their two beloved daughters in Pittsburgh. Jim was an honored girl dad to his precious "girlies" Rachel and Lauren who he completely adored. He found such joy in watching them participate in all of their sports and activities. Supporting the girls and watching them grow into the caring and beautiful teenagers they are was one of his most proud accomplishments. All the fun and countless memories shared when traveling, boating, and during daddy-daughter adventures will be cherished and never forgotten!

Jim will be remembered for his kind eyes, quiet strength, generous heart, and big smile that he would put on everyone's face around him. Jim touched many lives in meaningful ways. He valued all of the loyal friendships throughout his lifetime made during school, playing sports, at work, through his kids … many of them he's had since growing up.

Though cancer took him far too soon at 49 years young, it never took his spirit or the love he had for enjoying life and the people around him. Traveling, boating, grilling, movies, playing golf, watching his favorite sports teams, just to name a few! His family and friends were inspired by his courageous fight and never-give-up attitude. Jim's love for life, fun, family and friends will be valued and cherished by all those who knew him … and remembered always!

A special and sincere thank you goes out to his oncology doctors, nurses, and support staff at St. Clair Health Dunlap Family Outpatient Center who all gave him care, strength, and hope during this most difficult time.

Friends may call at the Russell C. Schmidt & Son Funeral Home Inc., 5000 Wattsburg Rd., Erie, on Friday, April 3rd, 2026 from 4 to 8 p.m. Funeral services and entombment will be private.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Cathedral Preparatory School - 250 W. 10th Street, Erie, PA 16501.

Please visit www.SchmidtFuneralHomeErie.com to leave a condolence on Jim's Tribute Page.