James Hoydic

James J. "Dicey" Hoydic, age 76, died at home peacefully following a courageous fight with kidney cancer.

He was born in Erie on May 1, 1937 son of the late Joseph "Dicey" Hoydic and Wanda (Szymanowski) Hoydic.

He is survived by his loving wife, Grace, a son, Clifton James Hoydic, daughter in law, Judy, and his grandson Corey James Hoydic, his pride and joy. He is further survived by his sister, Doris Langer and a brother, Jerry Hoydic.

He enjoyed many days in the company of his faithful friend, Sam the German Shepherd dos who was with him until the end. He enjoyed many boys weekends at camp with Cliff, Corey and Sam.

Mr. Hoydic was a veteran of the United States Air Force and the United States Army. He retired from the Army Reserve with 26 years military service. Sgt. Hoydic was an EMT in the Air Force and a Mess Sgt. In the Army.

Mr. Hoydic had jobs at Sears in management and Singer Company. He retired from the U.S. Postal Service, where he started as a mail carrier, went into maintenance as a Craft Director and Steward for 15 years for the APWU.

He was a member of the Siebenbuerger Club for 20 years. Jim made Cursillo in April of 2000, #168. He was a member of Our Lady of Peace Parish.

He also enjoyed all his friends at the Nautilus Fitness Club as a member since 1998.

"Dicey" was an avid softball and baseball player for over 62 years. In Kansas, he played semi-pro for the Salina Blue Jays, and had the distinction of playing with the "Great Satchel Paige" for 2 years.

He was one of the original "Carpetowne Players" and played for many of the best teams around as a pitcher and 3rd baseman. His favorite team of all was the Erie Codgers Softball Team. He played alongside his best friend of 45 years, Bruce Baumann and all the other old timers.

He was also the voice of "Dicey's picks" on WDVE radio- Randy Baumann's morning show in Pittsburgh where he gave his 3 best pro picks of the week.

He was an avid Cleveland Browns and Boise State broncos fan. He loved watching College Football on Saturdays and Pro Football on Sundays with his son Cliff in "The garage". He loved betting Pro football and playing poker with Joe D and the boys.

The family would like to give special thanks to Dr. Anthony Letizio and Dr. Brian Lang for going above and beyond during these trying times.

Friends may call at the Burton Westlake Funeral Home on Friday from 2 to 5 p.m. and are 7 to 9 p.m. and on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Mike DeMartinis officiating.

All Codgers and Browns fans please feel free to come in uniform. Burial in Erie County Memorial Gardens Cemetery with full Military Honors.

Memorials may be made to the Kanzius Cancer Research Foundation 130 W. 8th Street, Erie, PA 16501 or to the family.