Leo A. 'Tippy' James

Leo A. 'Tippy' James, 60, of Pottsville, died Thursday November 21, 2013 at his residence after fighting a courageous battle with ALS- Lou Gehrig's Disease. Born August 1, 1953, in Pottsville, Leo was the the son of the late Lawrence and Doris (Cappella) James. He attended Pottsville Area Schools prior to enlisting in the United States Navy. While in the Navy he proudly served our country during the Vietnam War. After being honorably discharged from service he continued his service with the United States Naval Reserves. He was a member of St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, Pottsville and was a literacy instructor with the former 'Pottsville Literacy Counsel'. He was employed at Big Lots Distribution Center, played in different local pool leagues and was a member of 'The James Gang' Baseball Team prior to his illness. Leo did not allow his fight with ALS to slow him down. He traveled to Philadelphia to meet with the Philadelphia Phillies (his favorite baseball team since childhood) and was active in their fundraising efforts. Nothing was closer to his heart than raising money for ALS. He worked tirelessly to help raise funds to find a cure and 'kick' the disease. He was to be honored last Friday by The ALS Association Greater Philadelphia Chapter, however due to his illness he was unable to attend. He also traveled to Washington D.C. and Harrisburg on several occasions. His generosity extended to a wide variety of charities including 'Operation Smiles'. He found great joy in helping others and always had a positive attitude. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by a niece, Denise Gaumer who died in 1986. 'Tippy' is survived by a brother, Larry 'Fuzzer' James, Pottsville; sisters Bonnie Bowen, Schuylkill Haven and Kathleen Gaumer, St. Clair. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews Dennis, Holly and Cody Gaumer; Larry James; and Jody and Missy Evans. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday November 25, 2013 at 10 o'clock at St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, Pottsville. Family and friends may call Sunday evening from 6 to 8 pm at Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home, Pottsville. Interment with military honors will be held at Our Lady of Calvary Chapel, Pottsville. In honor of Leo's generosity and battle with ALS the family would prefer contributions be made in his name to the ALS Association 321 Norristown Road Suite 260 Ambler PA 19002