James J. Gatens

James J. Gatens, 67 years of age of Arlington Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania died unexpectedly on Sunday, July 7, 2019, at home. Born Friday, December 14, 1951 in Coaldale, Jim was raised in the home of his late grandparents, Theodore and Virginia Murphy along with their children. He was also predeceased by his beloved wife Patricia A. (Mahala) Gatens on February 9, 2006. Surviving are; son, Jeremy M. Gatens and his wife Whitney of Philadelphia; daughters, Melissa L. Gatens of Tamaqua, Elena W. Gatens of Philadelphia. A member of St. John XXIII R.C.C. of Tamaqua, Jim graduated from Marian Catholic High School class of 1969. He retired from Eagle Rock Resorts where he was head of maintenance. Jim, was a longtime Steward for the South Ward Fire Co. of Tamaqua. He was an active member of the Tamaqua Pool League and social member of the American Legion. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of 655 East Broad Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252. (570) 668-2550 A Funeral service will be at 10:00 AM on Friday July 12, 2019 from the funeral home. Friends may call on Thursday evening July 11, 2019 from 6 to 8:00 P.M. Interment will be in Odd Fellows, Cemetery, Tamaqua, Pennsylvania. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com