It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James Joseph Gilhool on August 31 2024, at the age of 90. Born on February 7th, 1934 in Carbondale PA to Joseph and Marie (Swanick) Gilhool, Jim’s parents moved him and his seven siblings to Philadelphia when he was seven. He met the love of his life, Mary Catherine (McIntyre) Gilhool, among mutual friends in Avalon, NJ and they married in June 1974. Jim and Mary raised their family in Southwest Philadelphia and spent the last 50 years happily married. He was a sweet, caring, and loving man, an amazing listener, and great story teller. He always put the needs of others ahead of his own. Jim was a devout catholic, enjoyed sharing his St Joseph novena holy cards with friends and family, and took solace in knowing God was watching over him and all those he loved.

Jim was a lifelong mechanic who worked at International Harvester and SEPTA, also spending some time as a helicopter mechanic. Jim retired in 1997 to the quiet area of Jim Thorpe where he continued his passion for tinkering with cars and getting his hands dirty on house projects. He truly valued spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren, and loved visiting with his siblings and friends.

Jim was preceded in death by father and mother Joseph and Marie, brothers Joseph and Eugene, and sister Maryanne Bello.

Survived by his wife Mary Catherine (McIntyre) Gilhool, children Christopher (wife Tracy); Brian (significant other Patricia); daughter Colleen (husband Gregory) Papenhausen; grand daughters Lilly and Kate Papenhausen, and siblings Thomas, Vincent (wife Nancy), Rosemary Miller, Doris Myers, and sister-in-law Stella Gilhool. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. His departure leaves an unfillable void in their lives, yet they find comfort in the memories and everlasting love they shared. 

Funeral mass will be held on Saturday Sept 14th at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter the Fisherman,  33 Trinity Circle, Lake Harmony, PA 18624. No viewing prior.  Please note that, as in life, Jim may be running late...

In remembrance of Jim, the family asks that you check your oil, tire pressure, wiper blades and head lights, just as Jim would have when his children visited.

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