James M. Macalush

1962 - 2024

James Macalush

James M. Macalush, 62 years, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024, at home surrounded by his family. He was the husband of Denise L. (Dengler) Macalush for 35 years.

Born in Lehighton, he was the son of the late Dolores (Gazo) Macalush and James Macalush.

Jim was a loving husband, father, son, Pop Pop, boss and friend. Jim outlived every diagnosis he was given. After a courageous battle of cancer for 8 years, God saw he was getting tired of fighting. He touched a lot of lives and showed us the perfect example of determination; he never gave up, no matter what. Jim worked every single day, which led him to be in the restaurant business for 40 plus years, where he originally met his wife, Denise. Jim was the previous owner of Jalini's where he was a huge part of the community. After helping to open several other businesses, he had another opportunity to purchase the perfect location next to Northwestern High School in New Tripoli and named it Katies, after his daughter. He dedicated his last 12 years to the family business and enjoyed being there for the community. Jim enjoyed playing on his pool league, going to the races with Jason Miller, beach trips, was a longtime Miami Dolphins fan, following high school football and spending time with his grandkids. He will be truly missed by all.

Surviving are his wife, Denise, children, Katie Macalush of Orefield and James Pletz (Jerneen) of Macungie, siblings, Vincent Macalush (Valerie) of Sheffield, Gregory Macalush (Lisa) of Nazareth, Debbie Lienhard (Ronald) of Jim Thorpe and Jennifer Hoffman (Frank) of Palmerton; grandchildren, Hannah, Hudson, Azariah, Jacques, Jaevon and Amaree. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, extended family and friends.

Service: A funeral service will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 21, at Ziegels Lutheran Church, 9990 Ziegels Church Road, Breinigsville. A visitation will take place on Friday, Sept. 20, from 6-8 p.m. at Keller Funeral Home, 1018 Church St., Fogelsville, and Saturday from 10-11 a.m. in the church. Interment, church cemetery. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.KellerFuneralHomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Keller Funeral Homes Inc., P.O. Box 52, Fogelsville, PA 18051, to be used for the grandchildren's education.