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James E. Bach

July 20, 1942 - December 12, 2025

Text:

Obituary For James E. Bach

Age 83, on Friday, December 12, 2025, of Whitehall.

Loving father of William F. (Kristy) Bach, Amy M. (Tim) Colleran, and the late David E. Bach; beloved Pappy of Ava, Brady and Carson Colleran; brother of Thomas A. (Donna Marie) Bach and Frank A. (Judi) Bach, Jr.; cousin of the late William (survived by Mary Alice) Jansen; also survived by many nieces, nephews and former spouse and current friend Jennifer Bach. Much loved son of the late Frank A. and Salome Jansen Bach, Sr. Jim was a member of St. Sylvester Parish and was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, having served from 1964-1966. During his last 11 months in the Army, he was a member of a five man honor guard in Fort Irwin, California. He was a longtime member of American Legion Post 712 and served as commander from 2010-2013. Jim worked his entire 38 year career at Blue Cross of Western PA (now Highmark). When he retired, he was the Director of Business Consulting, Providers Affairs Department. An avid outdoorsman, Jim not only hunted and fished all over PA, but he also enjoyed many trips to Ontario, Wyoming, Montana, Colorado and Utah. He belonged to Ducks Unlimited, Ruffed Grouse Society, Wild Turkey Federation and the NRA. Friends will be received at the John F. Slater Funeral Home, Inc., 412-881-4100, 4201 Brownsville Road, Brentwood 15227, Tuesday, December 16, 2025 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m and 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Funeral Prayer on Wednesday morning at 9:45. Mass of Christian Burial in Blessed Trinity Parish at St. Sylvester Church at 10:30 a.m. If desired, family suggests contributions to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, www.stjude.org or UPMC Children's Hospital Foundation, www.givetochildrens.org.

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Condolences

  • January 27, 2026

    Musial Vicki

    I just lost one of the nicest neighbors I've ever known. Jim lived next door to me for the past 20 years! He was always so kind, so friendly, & always had a smile for everyone. He will be dearly missed in our neighborhood. Rest in Peace dear neighbor! 🙏🏻

  • December 15, 2025

    Grateful

    James, Thank You for Your service to our country. God Bless You! God be with your family! Sincerely, A Grateful American

  • December 15, 2025

    Mary Alice Jansen

    A life ended way too soon, JB had so much more to do....but God had other plans for him. The Gates of Heaven joyfully opened up with so many of his loved ones to greet him, including my dear husband and Jim's cousin, Bill. Their love of being at the country in Darlington, and the special bond of our families will always be cherished. May Jenny,Amy,Bill and all Jim's familiy find content in their beautiful memories. May JB rest in the Peace of Christ. Mary Alice Jansen

  • December 15, 2025

    Dean W. Eckenrode

    Jim was one of the finest men I have ever known. I was privileged to call him my friend for over 56 years. He was the Best Man at my wedding and an irreplaceable, positive influence in my life. He is gone too soon, but his impact will linger for generations through his family and friends. Godspeed and eternal peace until we meet again. "Cheerful in all things; Never shirked a task; Splendid behavior."

  • December 15, 2025

    Patti Gorga

    I'm so sorry to hear about Jim! He was a great boss and mentor to me at Highmark. He will be missed by his family and friends. RIP JIM!

  • December 15, 2025

    Patti Gorga

    I'm so sorry to hear about Jim. He was a great boss and Mentor to me at Highmark. He will be missed by his family and friends! RIP JIM!

  • December 15, 2025

    Denise Reilly

    To my godfather, who always meant the world to me and all our family! We love you . Denise Jansen Reilly

  • December 15, 2025

    Amy Martin

    Jim was my brother Skip's best friend. His son, David is buried in the same cemetery as my maternal grandparents. Whenever Jim went to tend to David's grave, he always stopped at my grandparent's headstone and took care of theirs as well. This is the type of man that Jim was.

  • December 14, 2025

    Joan Hays Foutz

    I was so sorry to hear this news. Jim and I were attendants in Mary Alice and Bill's wedding. Jim played a big part in my childhood when we spent time at "the country" and " the creek"! Sammy and Al were the best! Salt of the Earth family! My prayers and sympathy are with all! Joan Hays Foutz

  • December 14, 2025

    Robert J. Miklas, USN

    Jim, you stand relieved from your post. A job well done fellow Vietnam Veteran. America thanks you for your service to our country in the defense of freedom. The final volley has sounded and taps is about to begin, ending a successful career as a nation's defender. Farewell fellow veteran.

  • December 14, 2025

    Frank a bach

    So very sorry to have lost you my brother. You taught me how to hunt and fish and did it very well. I'll be thankful for your instructions, on those things and life in general. Love you

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