James Francis Steidle

James Francis Steidle

James Francis Steidle, 94, passed away peacefully on Sept. 5, 2024.

He was born in Jim Thorpe to Frank and Emma Steidle.

Jim held mathematical degrees from East Stroudsburg University and Montclair State College.

During his career, he taught math at schools in New Jersey, Phillips Academy Andover, and East Lansing High School, and was the recipient of a number of NSF grants.

He cherished his connections with students, mentoring them and following their professional development.

An avid athlete and musician, Jim pursued his passion for baseball as a pitcher, signing a contract with the New York Giants but injuries ended his potential career on the field.

Coaching provided an outlet for his continuing interest. He was inducted into the Carbon County Hall of Fame in 2001.

The emergence of the Big Band Era spurred opportunities for realizing his musical talents. Having joined a local ensemble at the age of 16, he added new instruments to his sax and accordion repertoire and expanded the venues in which he played.

In retirement, Jim read broadly but with special interest in new developments in science and math, always reminding others of the preeminent role of these disciplines in improving the world around us. The book that remains on his desk deals with Chaos Theory!

We will miss Jim's laugh, and his stories, but most of all, we will miss his quiet presence, and his unwavering love and support. Although he has now gone from this earth, his legacy will live on in all the many lives he touched in his uniquely quiet, humble way.

"A life that touches others goes on forever."

Jim is survived by his wife, Barbara; son, Jame; daughter, Susan; grandchildren, Emma, Madeleine, Greta, Lilly and Angela; brother, Richard and sister-in-law, Joan.

He was predeceased by brothers, Bert and Gerald and sisters-in-law, Phyllis and Teresa.

A funeral Mass for Jim was held at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in East Lansing, Mich., Friday, Sept. 13, 2024.

Service: A graveside service for Jim will take place Friday, Sept. 20, 2024, at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Cemetery in Jim Thorpe.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society at St. Thomas Aquinas Church.