James P. "Garf" Garstecki

James P. Garstecki, also known as “Garf”, 61, of Connellsville (Dunbar Twp), passed away on Saturday May 15, 2021 at his home.

He was born April 7, 1960 in Connellsville, a son of the late Paul and Albina (Picel) Garstecki.

He graduated from Connellsville Area High School in 1978. He was baptized at the former Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church. After Holy Trinity’s closure, he became a member at the former St. Vincent DePaul Roman Catholic Church where he served as an usher for many years.

Once St. Vincent closed, he became and was a current member of St. John the Evangelist R.C. Church, Connellsville.

James was a member of the Polish Club, ELKS #503 and the Slovak Club. He was also a member of the former Jaycee’s and was a very active member for years.

He was employed at North Fayette Water for 34 years until his retirement.

People always said that James had a good sense of humor. He enjoyed people, the outdoors, wildlife, pets, and country music.

His hobbies included gardening, yard work, golf, watching all Pittsburgh sports teams, watching the 4 major tennis tournaments, playing cards, reading, and good conversations.

James is survived by his brothers, Mark (Marian) and Paul (Denise); several nieces; best friend, Rich Halfin (Cindy); special cousin, Paul Skoric; good friends, Dolly Peshko, Linda Nicholson, Pat Mullaney, Bob Luktisch, Scott Carson, Ann and Duane King, “Uncle” George Geletko and his loving companion, Sassy.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his very loving pets, Snoopy and Zeke and his most pristine companion, Sadie and many aunts and uncles.

Family and friends will be received in the PAUL G. FINK FUNERAL HOME, INC. 418 North Pittsburgh Street Connellsville, PA 15425 on Tuesday 7pm – 9pm, Wednesday from 2pm – 4pm and from 7pm – 9pm and on Thursday from 8:30am until 9:30am, when Prayers of Transfer will be held.

A Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at St. John the Evangelist R.C. Church, Connellsville at 10am with Rev. Fr. Paul Lisik as Celebrant.

Committal will follow at Green Ridge Memorial Park, Connellsville.

If you wish to leave an online condolence for Garf’s family and friends, please visit our website: www.paulgfinkfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James P. "Garf" Garstecki, please visit our floral store.