James T. Pasternak

James T. Pasternak, 32, of Pleasant Mount, died Wednesday evening from injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident.

Born June 20, 1989, in Lackawanna County, he was the loving son of Thomas J. and Mary Ann (Puchalski) Pasternak of Pleasant Mount. Jim graduated from Forest City Regional High School in 2007. He went on to study at Universal Technical Institute in Exton, Pa., where he earned certifications in automotive and diesel mechanics. Following the completion of that program, Jim continued his education in Phoenix, Arizona, where he became a certified power generator technician. Jim enjoyed the opportunity of traveling around the country and internationally with his skills, making many friends along the way. He was most recently working as a contractor for the Department of Defense. Jim had a huge heart and was constantly eager to help others. In recent years, he grew his hair on three separate occasions and donated it to Locks of Love. Jim loved to see the world, visiting all seven continents, and riding through 38 states on a 60-day motorcycle tour. He cherished his friends, and most of all, he was dedicated to his family, and will always be remembered for his unfailing love and kindness.

Also surviving are his sister, Elizabeth Balmores and her husband, Chris, Kihei, Hawaii; his brother, Michael Pasternak, Philadelphia; and a niece, Makenna Mae Balmores; aunts and uncles, John Pasternak, Alida Pasternak, Cathy and Joe Adamatis, Joan and Michael Metzler, David and Mary Puchalski, Lisa and Bryan Wirtz; several cousins; and countless friends in the community and around the world.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Thomas and Emily Pasternak, and Ronald and Catherine Puchalski.

The funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday at 10 a.m. in St. James Church, 361 Great Bend Turnpike, Pleasant Mount, with the Rev. Joseph Sitko officiating. All attending are asked to go directly to the church on Saturday morning.

Friends and family may visit Friday, 4 to 7 p.m., at the Jenkins-Howell Funeral Home Inc., Edward R. Howell, funeral director, 269 Belmont St., Waymart.

Interment will be Saturday in St. James Cemetery, Pleasant Mount.