James Zoladkiewicz

James Zoladkiewicz passed away peacefully on August 17, 2025, at his home in Wilmington, DE surrounded by his two children. James served in the United States Army as a decorated combat infantryman during the Vietnam War and once returning stateside was military police at Aberdeen, MD for his remaining military service. As he transitioned to civilian life, James began working at General Motors. He would often say that he loved his job, and this was evidenced by 30+ years of employment and ultimately retiring from GM. During his accomplished career he skillfully handled multiple positions such as committeeman, line supervisor and body shop welder.

The true love of James’ life was his wife, Andrea, as they shared 55 years of devoted and adoring marriage together. Their love story began as teenagers, and James would often joyfully share fond tales of his courtship of Andrea. The love James had for Andrea never wavered even when she became handicapped for 16+ years from a brain tumor and stroke. James, along with his two children, admirably became Andrea’s caretaker. James and Andrea both shared the enjoyment of cardinals, and they would often say they wanted to come back as cardinals forever flying together in the skies.

Some of James’ top hobbies and interests included puzzles, word searches, gardening, trips to Lancaster PA, eating crabs, military movies and documentaries, Elvis Presley and Neil Diamond’s music catalog, classic television shows especially M*A*S*H and Gunsmoke, and watching sports particularly football and baseball. His son, Neil, affectionally gave him the nickname “Mr. Baseball,” in reference to the Tom Selleck movie.  James’s absolute favorite thing to do was spend time with his family, especially his granddaughter, Paige, who was the light of his life.  He would always say how proud he was to be her grandfather, and his only job was to love her.  The bond they had could never be broken.

Devoted husband of the late Andrea Zoladkiewicz, Son of the late Alexaander & Margaret Zoladkiewicz

Survivors: loving father of Erika (Michael) Opet and Neil A. Zoladkiewicz. Cherished grandfather of Paige A. Opet.

Relatives & Friends are invited to his graveside service 11am on Tuesday August 26th, at Lawn Croft cemetery: 1000 W. Ridge Road, Linwood, PA. 19061. The family will meet at the office of the cemetery at 10:30am.

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