James Schmitt

James R Schmitt (Jim) Age 69 Died peacefully at home on Wednesday June 30th 2021.

Born October 1, 1951 in Erie to the late William and Margaret Crowe Schmitt. Graduate of Cathedral Prep & attended Gannon University. Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. Jim was proceeded in death by his brother Joseph Schmitt.

Jim worked most of his adult life in various management positions at textile leasing corporations including UNSCO, Initial USA and Harrington. For the past 10 years his career path was at Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority where he enjoyed driving the “e”. He was well known as “the driver wearing the bowtie”. Jim personified the spirit of Christmas, proudly wearing his “Santa Suit” and handing out candy canes on his bus. He visited neighbors to surprise the children and was Santa at St. Martin Center and the St. Mary’s Club, he was truly one of a kind and will be greatly missed.

Jim was an avid golfer, reader and bowler. He was a collector and talented restorer of American Flyer model trains. He was a long suffering Cleveland Indians and Raiders fan. Jim was a member of Church of the Cross, and Elks Lodge #67 of Erie. Member of Amalgamated Transit Union, Local 568.

Jim is survived by the love of his life whom he married 35 years ago on September 27, Janet (Van Voorhis) Schmitt. He is also survived by three children: Jennifer Koepfer of Steam Boat Springs, CO, Jessica Szuba (Greg) of Erie, and Zachary Schmitt of Monaca, PA. Also survived by sisters Elaine Fagley (Jerry) and Eileen Grow (Dennis) of Erie and Mary Margaret Schmitt of Warren, PA. Grandchildren Dane, Alec, and Samantha Koepfer of Colorado. Ripley, Ryan, and Rowan Szuba of Erie. Also many nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or Erie Humane Society 2407 Zimmerly Rd, Erie, PA 16506.

Arrangements are being handled by Burton Quinn-Scott Cremation and Funeral Services, 3801 W. 26th Street, Erie, PA 16506.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Send condolences at www.BurtonQuinnScott.com