Cover photo for James Stephen Makosey's Obituary
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1935 James 2024

James Stephen Makosey

August 19, 1935 — April 12, 2024

Irwin

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James Stephen Makosey, 88, of Irwin, passed away Friday, April 12, 2024. He was born August 19, 1935 in McKeesport and was the son of the late John and Mary (Telesko) Makosey. He was the husband of the late Ellen (Gross) Makosey who passed away February 15, 2019. They were married for 55 years. Jim was a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh and served as a pilot in the USAF Air National Guard. He worked at the Bettis Atomic Power Lab, Latrobe Steel and was a manager at the Harbison Walker Research Center in West Mifflin. He co-founded McKeesport Auto Body, owned and operated a classic car dealership, and carried out industrial consulting. He was very proud of the home that he built for Ellen's and his retirement. He was a great husband and father, loved to joke and pull pranks. He had a lifelong passion for golf and classic cars. He is survived by his son, Stephen (Stephanie) Makosey of Murrysville; daughter, Beth (Steve Burge) Makosey of San Jose, CA.; grandchildren: Evelyn Makosey, Robert Burge and Katherine Burge; sister-in-law, Jane (Dean) Bradley of Dravosburg; brother-in-law Jack Gross of Greenville; special nephew, Ronald (Shelby) Makosey of Boston and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by sisters Shirley, Ann, Helen and Mary, and brothers  Joseph, Charles, John and Andrew. A very special thanks to Jim's caregiver, Sherry Fanell, who made living at home possible. Friends are welcome Friday, April 26, 2024 from 5-7 pm at the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, Director. Funeral Service with Military Honors will be held in the funeral home chapel on Friday at 7 pm. Burial will be private. Condolences may be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com

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Service Schedule

Past Services

Visitation

Friday, April 26, 2024

5:00 - 7:00 pm (Eastern time)

Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, PA 15135

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Funeral Service

Friday, April 26, 2024

7:00 - 8:00 pm (Eastern time)

Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, PA 15135

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

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