David J. "Jim" Bish, 78, of New Castle, passed away surrounded by his family Tuesday morning, April 23, 2024, in UPMC Jameson Hospital.

Mr. Bish was born June 25, 1945, in New Bethlehem, PA, a son of the late Reed V. and Ruby E. (Bright) Bish.

A proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, David served for four years and was stationed aboard the U.S.S. O'Brien – DD 725.

In 2005, David retired from the PA Dept. of Corrections following more than 20 years of service as a corrections officer.

David was a member of the Holy Spirit Parish of New Castle, and formerly a longtime member of St. Joseph the Worker Parish where he served as a Eucharist Minister.

A lifetime member of the Hickory Twp. Vol. Fire Dept., he had served as past president, assistant chief, and treasurer.

David enjoyed vacationing with his wife, especially their trips to Aruba.

His wife of 54 years, Elaine R. (Gallaher) Bish, whom he married November 11, 1967, preceded him in death November 25, 2021.

David is survived by two daughters, Lorine E. Bish and Tracey L. Booher (Kevin), all of New Castle; a son, James D. Bish (Jamie), of Portersville; a sister, Janet Twigg, of New Wilmington; four grandchildren, David and Alyssa Cumpston, and Hunter and Leah Bish; and a great-grandson, Theodore Cumpston.

In addition to his wife and parents, David was preceded in death by his son, David J. Bish, II.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Hickory Vol. Fire Dept., 2480 Eastbrook Rd., New Castle, PA 16101.

Calling hours will be 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday (4-25-24) in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 111 W. Falls St. New Castle.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Friday (4-26-24)in Holy Spirit Parish – St. Mary's Church, 124 N. Beaver St., New Castle, with Rev. Aaron Kriss, as celebrant.

Military honors will be rendered by the New Castle Area Honor Guard.

Entombment: Holy Redeemer Mausoleum, Ellwood City.