Obituary of James G. Ascah

James Gordon Ascah, 70, of Spring Mills passed away on the morning of October 23, 2015. Born July 31, 1945 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Jim was the son of Ralph G. Ascah and Sarah Royer Ascah, who both preceded him in death. Jim is survived by his son Brian and daughter-in-law Lauren of Newport News, VA; sister, Barbara Armstrong and her husband Joseph of Littleton, NC; brother, Robert and his wife Jill of State College. Jim was a 1963 graduate of State College Area High School where he excelled in academics, choir, band, basketball and baseball. Jim graduated in 1967 from Penn State University where he participated in intramural sports, Blue Band, and Glee Club. While at Penn State Jim was a member of Acacia Fraternity. As a youth, Jim was active in Boy Scouts attaining their highest rank of Eagle Scout. Following college, Jim attended Naval Officer Candidate School in Newport, RI and was commissioned as an Officer in the United State Navy. He served on the USS Wright and later at Naval Air Station Oceana, before retiring with the rank of Lieutenant. After his service in the Navy, Jim accepted a position with the IBM Corporation, and later found his true passion, flying. He ultimately became a Captain with U.S. Air before ending his working career with FedEx. Jim was an avid sports fan, attending many local high school contests. He tailgated and attended Penn State Football games with the same group of loyal friends for over 40 years. Jim also enjoyed his recreational bowling league, which met weekly at the Milheim Lanes. Jim was a life member of the State College Area High School Alumni Association and the Penn State Alumni Association. He enjoyed singing locally with Essence II choir. He was a long-time member of Calvary Baptist Church in State College and greatly enjoyed his weekly Bible Study group as well as the support of all his Calvary Family. A burial service will be held at a later date to be determined with interment in the Boalsburg Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Cancer Care Partnership at Mount Nittany Medical Center or a charity of ones choosing. James G. Ascah will be remembered as a loving and loved son, brother, nephew, cousin father, uncle and friend. He was a good man. Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com.