James Calabrese

James L. Calabrese, 67, of Erie, passed away Monday, February 24, 2025 at the Cleveland Clinic. He was born August 27, 1957 in Erie, a son of the late Joseph and Mary (Rodriguez) Calabrese.

He was a graduate of Strong Vincent High School and the Erie Institute of Technology.

Jim's impressive 40-year career in Information Technology spanned a significant portion of his life, culminating in 24 rewarding years with Erie County, until his retirement in June of 2024.

Jim was a generous spirit who was a dedicated volunteer with Special Olympics, where he found a particular joy in coaching the swim team. He was also a lector for numerous years at Blessed Sacrament Church, alongside his daughter Janine.

He was a lifelong member of the Nuova Aurora Club. Jim was an avid bowler, loved going camping, and enjoyed a good ride on his motorcycle. Cooking was another of Jim's passions; he loved creating delicious meals, often for gatherings filled with laughter and love.

Of all his pursuits, Jim cherished spending time with his family the most. His grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and the moments they shared together will be remembered as some of his greatest treasures.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Michael J. Calabrese.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Marcia Pietrasiewicz Calabrese; two daughters, Emily Killian (Matthew) and Janine Calabrese; one son, John Calabrese; his sister, Mary Grace Calabrese; and three grandchildren, Robbie, Madelyn, and Charlotte Killian. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and his dinner club friends.

Friends are invited to call on Friday at the John R. Orlando Funeral Home, Inc., 2122 Raspberry Street, from 2:00 to 5:00 and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. and may attend a service there on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass at Blessed Sacrament Church, 1626 West 26th Street, at 10:00 a.m. Burial will be in Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Erie Humane Society, www.eriehumanesociety.org, or to Special Olympics NWPA, P.O. Box 8054, Erie, PA 16506, or to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org.