James Sylvester Kerwick

James “Jim” Kerwick passed away on July 21, 2026, at the age of 76.

He was born in Pottsville on July 31, 1949, to Elizabeth “Betty” Loftus Kerwick and James Edmund Kerwick.

Jim graduated from Nativity BVM High School in 1967 and then enlisted in the United States Coast Guard. After serving his country, Jim worked in civil service for PennDOT and then as a road inspector in Harrisburg with the company Weisenberger. He concluded his work in Allentown as a sewer inspector with Ronca.

In the mid 80’s, Jim joined his father as a partner in the family business, Kerwick’s Leather Goods in Pottsville, PA where he worked until he retired.

Jim had many creative hobbies. He loved landscaping, art and writing. He had a passion for inventing practical use items and even acquired several patents. Over the years, he collected many classic cars and enjoyed restoring and driving them. He wrote and published the book “The Son and the Earth” in 2002.

In addition to his mother and father, he was preceded in death by his sister Judy Yupcavage, and two nephews Benjamin Yupcavage and Jeff Tarman.

Jim is survived by his wife Patricia to whom he was married 54 years; two children: Patrick and Kaitlin Kerwick; two sisters: Janey Lohr and Linda Echenrode; two grandchildren: Kyran and Aidan Khindri.

A Private Mass and Christian Burial will be held at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ebling Stabingas Funeral Home, Inc., Cressona.