James L. “Jim” Dziedzic, 66, of Williams Township, died Tuesday, April 20, 2021 following a cycling accident.
Born October 2, 1954 in Hackensack, NJ, he was the son of the late Fred T. and Virginia (Smulewicz) Dziedzic. He and his wife, Elizabeth “Betsy” (Klebe) Dziedzic were married 33 years.
Jim grew up in Maywood, NJ, and graduated from Bergen Catholic High School, Oradell, NJ and Marist College, Poughkeepsie, NY where he rowed varsity crew. He worked for Crown Equipment Corp of New Jersey for 20 years, beginning in sales and finally, as Branch Manager. Prior to that he worked for Banque Indosuez in New York City and Mack Trucks in New Jersey.
After commuting 150 miles a day for twenty years, he retired in 2005 so he could be with his children before they grew up and left the nest. Taking care of the kids and the house became his new full-time job. It also allowed him to pursue his passions. Jim was an avid cyclist, golfer and skier and was a ski instructor at Blue Mountain. He was also a car enthusiast and frequently participated in car club performance driving events.
He was a member of College Hill Presbyterian Church, Easton, a Boy Scout leader with Troop 31, Williams Township, accompanying his son and the troop to Philmont and Sea Base. He also served on the budget committee of Williams Township.
Surviving with his wife, Betsy, are a son, J. Gordon Dziedzic and his wife, Ann of New York City; a daughter, Kristen L. Dziedzic and her fiancé, Nicholas V. Liguori of Baltimore, MD; a brother, Jerry Dziedzic and his wife, Laura of Pattenburg, NJ; an uncle, Max Smulewicz and his wife, Ann; and brothers-in-law, Chuck Klebe and Jim Klebe.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, April 26, 2021 at Durham Cemetery, 821 Durham Rd., Durham, PA. A visitation will be held from 2:00 to 5:00 pm on Sunday, April 25, 2021 in the Ashton Funeral Home, 1337 Northampton St., Easton.
Memorial contributions may be made to the State Theatre of Easton and Third Street Alliance, Easton.
Offer online condolences at www. AshtonFuneralHome.com.
Rob Liguori
April 22, 2021 at 7:02 pm
I only knew Jim for a brief time, but we formed a friendship that I knew would grow over time. He took great care of my son Nick, and he will be missed.
Katie and Tom McDonald
April 22, 2021 at 9:15 pm
Betsy, Gordon and Kristen – Jim was a ray of light. Words cannot even begin to express our sorrow — our hearts go out to you. Praying that peace and comfort find you during this difficult time.
LeAnn Klinger
April 22, 2021 at 9:35 pm
Sending prayers for comfort and peace for Jim’s family and friends. God’s Speed 🙏🏻☮️💕
Diana Groover Smith
April 22, 2021 at 9:59 pm
I received this news with great sadness. I send condolences
and prayers to find a place to comfort grieving hearts.
Julie Martin Mangis
April 22, 2021 at 10:12 pm
My heart goes out to you, Betsy, and your family. What a tragedy. Please know you are in my thoughts as you navigate through this difficult time. With deepest sympathy, Julie
Sue Michels
April 22, 2021 at 10:22 pm
Betsy, you and Jimmy…you’re so happy together. You’re one of the kindest couples in how you treat each other, how you speak to each other, how much you enjoy each other’s company. I realize I wrote that all in present tense…
Moments like this make it hard to understand God’s plan.
I love you, sister, and wish I could stop the pain. Sue 💙
Marianne W. Essington
April 22, 2021 at 10:36 pm
Oh i am sorry to learn of your loss !! I have so enjoyed seeing all of your family pictures through the last few years! Sending love and hugs virtually to you and all of your family!!’’Love,
Marianne!
John Brendan Shanahan
April 22, 2021 at 10:47 pm
Betsy, Gordon and Kristen
Jim was my best friend from age 15 to 27….then he was all yours. Those years, and all the great times we had together will always be cherished memories;
Praying that God will give you some comfort in these challenging times.
The tears may fade, but the Love and caring he gave will always be in your hearts.
Maureen Maloney
April 22, 2021 at 11:43 pm
Oh my sweet friend, I am so sorry for your loss. Praying for you and may he Rest In Peace.
Nanette Elder
April 23, 2021 at 4:34 am
I still can’t believe this is true. When you hear the words “full of life” you think of Jim. Praying for strength for you Betsy, Gordon, and Kristen in the coming days. I will miss running into Jim on the bike trails.
Candy Leber Frankowski
April 23, 2021 at 8:01 am
Betsy, even though it’s been many years since your CP days, I always enjoy reading your Facebook postings concerning your beautiful family and loving husband. I am truly sorry for the passing of Jim. You and family will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
Robin Lysek
April 23, 2021 at 8:48 am
Betsy, I am so sad to see this news! I remember meeting Jim at AP events. I hope you have many memories to cherish. Your family has an Angel that will continue to give you life’s blessings. Robin Lysek
Ray Brunner
April 23, 2021 at 9:23 am
Dear Betsy and Family,
My sincere condolences to everyone. I knew Jim for a brief time working on a project together in Williams Twp. I will always be reminded of him when I see the “Welcome to Williams Township” signs here in our community. Sending prayers you find comfort in his memory.
Joe and Karen Pietrantonio
April 23, 2021 at 9:24 am
Dearest Betsy, Karen and I are so deeply heartbroken and can not find the right way to express our sorrow for you and your family. We cherish the memories of the positive, vibrant togetherness that you and Jim always left us feeling. Please know that you are in our thoughts and we pray you find some comfort in the days to come. Our deepest sympathies, Joe and Karen
Tim and Jennifer McLaughlin
April 23, 2021 at 9:51 am
Betsy Gordon,Kristen
We are devasated with hearing this news for you.
Our heads spin and hearts ache.
We all so appreciated Jim and you all over the many years we were your neighbors. Jim was a real life role model for living life. I am at a loss for words to correctly express our feelings and sadness for your loss because these words simply don’t exist. I admired Jim for many reasons the list is long but you know it much better. I would often see Jim coming back from a ride and was silently inspired to see what he could do. No one is perfect but Jim was close. Our hearts to your hearts.
Sandra Butch
April 23, 2021 at 9:51 am
My most sincere condolences to you and your family, Betsy. Although I did not know Jim personally, I understand how painful losing your spouse is and pray that your memories will bring you peace at this time.
James and David Foster
April 23, 2021 at 10:36 am
Our hearts and prayers go out to the Dziedzic family. We are from New Castle, PA.
We only got to JIm and Betsy every once in a while. But these short visits were
fantastic. God bless.
Dale Brubeck
April 23, 2021 at 10:38 am
Betsy—I am so shocked and heartbroken to hear this tragic news. Please
know I am thinking of you and your family. I will be in touch in the days to come.
Dale
Casey Kirkman
April 23, 2021 at 11:29 am
Dear Betsy, Gordon, Kristin and the entire Dziedzic family.
Please know that each of you have been and will be on my mind and in my heart every moment. I’m finding that it helps ease the pain of losing him too soon, ever so slightly, to focus on what a truly wonderful life Jim lived. It feels like such a blessing that he was able to devote so much of his time to his beloved family and the sports and hobbies he was so passionate about. I hope that will be a comfort to you too.
With love to you all, Casey
Fred & Alice Whittles
April 23, 2021 at 11:59 am
My deepest sympathies to Betsy, Gordon and Kristen at this tragic loss of Jim. I apologize for not being able to get to the services from our home in South Carolina. I am sure many great stories will be shared about Jimmy D. We will always remember him as a great co-worker, husband, father and gentleman adventurer. When the shock of the loss is soften by time, I hope you will always have special memories of this amazing man to share and seek joy in.
Sincerely in sympathy,
Fred & Alice Whittles
Diana Martinelli
April 23, 2021 at 12:15 pm
Dearest Betsy,
I am stunned and heartbroken for you and your family. Please know that we are sending prayers your way and that we stand ready to assist in any way we might be able to do so.
Please be gentle with yourself during this incredibly painful time.
Bob and Susan Gadomski
April 23, 2021 at 12:28 pm
Dear Betsy- what a shocking loss. Our thoughts are with you. There were many good times and those memories are forever. God be with you and your family. Bob and Susan
Mark J Carvlin
April 23, 2021 at 1:22 pm
To the Dziedzic Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Jim as a fellow ski instructor. He was always upbeat, eager and willing to share his knowledge and kindle in others the same level of enthusiasm for the sport that he possessed. Jim was valued not only as a colleague but also as a genuinely good person. He will be missed.
With a heavy heart,
Mark Carvlin
JOHN DECRAY
April 23, 2021 at 1:36 pm
BETSY AND FAMILY, MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES,
SUCH A PROFOUND LOSS. JIM IS SOMEBODY I LOOKED UP TO, ADMIRED, I ENJOYED BEING WITH IMMENSELY, ALTHOUGH WE ONLY KNEW EACH OTHER A FEW YEARS, WE HAD AN INCREDIBLE BOND I WILL CHERISH.
Karen Drahushuk Hamm
April 23, 2021 at 2:07 pm
Betsy, I was so sorry to read about your husband, Jim. My thoughts are with you. May your memories bring you some solace.
Gail Petersen and Bill Mack
April 23, 2021 at 3:29 pm
Betsy, Gordon and Kristen, we will be there for you. Forever. Jim was a kind, warm, funny and loving person. We are thinking of you, how you will cope with the loss. We will learn to deal with his absence, but we will never get over his loss. He was a friend. A warm heart. A loving husband and parent. A hero in our hearts.
Carol Nichols
April 23, 2021 at 3:56 pm
Such fond memories of Jim – rebuilding an old truck in the basement, joining him for one of those long commutes into “the city” – picking up the keg for the party. He was a special person bringing joy and laughter to any occasion. Will miss you Jim. I know a big loss for Betsy – what a glorious 8 years of retirement the two of you enjoyed.
Donna and John Easton
April 23, 2021 at 4:27 pm
Dear Betsy,
I was so stunned and incredibly saddened to hear of Jim’s sudden passing. What a remarkable, vibrant and caring person he was, and what a dear husband and father to you, Kristen and Gordon. I wish I could be with you in person this weekend, but know that you are in my thought and prayers. May time, cherished memories, and God’s grace comfort and heal you. John joins me in sending our deepest sympathy.
Love, Donna
Vince and Suzy Maltese
April 23, 2021 at 5:28 pm
Betsy, we were with Bab and Jim when they heard your call regarding your husband’s accident and passing….such shocking and devastating news. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Our families have had to share grief before and we know that you and your family will be okay, it just takes some time.
Adele Fagan
April 23, 2021 at 5:38 pm
Betsy,
So sorry to hear the news about Jim. Cherish the fun memories. Sending you prayers and hugs for you and your family.
Adele
Liz Reese
April 23, 2021 at 6:37 pm
Betsy, I am so sad to hear this heartbreaking news about Jim. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Liz
Rachel Sheridan (nee Bird)
April 23, 2021 at 7:01 pm
Dear Betsy,
I am so sorry to hear of the terrible accident and loss of your husband Jim. Even all those years go I remember you talking of him with such enthusiasm and passion. My heart goes out to you and your family at this awful time. May you cherish your memories and may they bring you all comfort.
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs to you all.
Rachel.
Marilyn Bullock
April 23, 2021 at 8:27 pm
I am sad to learn about Jim. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and dear friends. I know it is a difficult time. Marilyn
Andy Killcoyne
April 24, 2021 at 12:35 am
Dear Betsy,
My heart goes out to to you and your family during this most tragic time. I so appreciate you both and cannot imagine you without Jim. My condolences. I will miss his infectious genuine smiles and happiness after an evening of live music at The Inn. I’ve felt like I’ve known you both for much longer than we actually have.
In sorrow,
Andy Killcoyne
Begoña Sanchez and Montse Gomez
April 24, 2021 at 6:45 am
Betsy, we were so sorry to hear of the loss of your husband. Sending you love and strength during this distressing time.
Begoña & Montse
Anne Padinske
April 24, 2021 at 11:06 am
Betsy. I was so sorry to hear of your husbands passing. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. I hope your years together gives you some comfort through this difficult time. Anne.
Randy and Debbie Saunders
April 24, 2021 at 11:53 am
We are praying for peace and comfort for you and your family. We are so sorry for your loss❤️
Karen and John Taylor
April 24, 2021 at 1:09 pm
Betsy!! Just seeing your Facebook entry about Jim. We are so so sorry.
James Dziedzic
April 24, 2021 at 1:11 pm
This is a little awkward to write. My name is James Dziedzic also. I’m from Allentown, Pa. I don’t know if I am relation or not but seeing my own name in newspaper associated with passing away was eerie to say the least. My heart goes out to the family and wish to pass on my sincerest condolences.
if anyone wants to reach out to find out if we’re somehow related, my email is jdallas11@aol.com
Marty & Pam Messano
April 24, 2021 at 2:44 pm
Although we had only met during visiting days at UMD visiting our daughters, we always had a great time and knew you were the nicest people. Our deepest condolences to Betsy, Kristen and Gordon. Jim’s kind heart will live on in your memories.
Kevin and Kathy Bange
April 24, 2021 at 8:32 pm
To the Dziedzic family,
We’re very saddened to hear of your loss. Our deepest condolences.
Your neighbors,
The Bange family
Dave Berger
April 24, 2021 at 11:49 pm
Dear Dziedzic Family,
I wish you strength and comfort in this time of deep sorrow. I knew Jim only from the time he began teaching at Blue Mountain Learning Center. He was always cheerful, helpful and well-respected. I don’t recall talking to him about his role as a scouter, but it makes perfect sense that he would serve in that capacity and foster youth through accompanying them to high adventure camps. He certainly epitomized active, outdoor life and a culture of service toward others. He lived the 12 points of the scout law. He had a kind heart and a warm smile. He will be sorely missed by all whose lives he touched.
“dr dave”
Jo Hills
April 25, 2021 at 6:57 am
Dear Betsy and family
My deepest condolences on such tragic news. Sending you love from a distance and hope that all the messages of support from your dearest friends and former colleagues, give you the strength you and your family need at this time.
Jo Hills x
Nancy Bickert
April 25, 2021 at 1:06 pm
Dear Betsy – I was saddened to read Jim’s obituary in MC yesterday. I remember meeting Jim one time many years ago. In that brief time, he was such a welcoming man and just made me feel good as a person. His smile said a lot about him and so does yours. My deepest sympathy to you and your family at this time of great loss. My the Lord comfort you with many fond memories and with the hope of seeing Jim again one day. God bless and strengthen you. Sincerely,
Nancy
Robert Seeling
April 25, 2021 at 2:52 pm
Betsy, Gordon, Kristen-
No words can express the deep sorrow we feel for your loss of Jim, a wonderful man, husband, and father. And we cannot fathom the pain you are feeling at this time. Our hope is you will be strong for each other in remembrances of Jim and that God will provide you with strength and comfort in the days and weeks to come. We were fortunate to know you and Jim, Betsy, as a young married couple in Allentown and through your wonderful Christmas letters with pictures of your activities and growing family over the years. We will hold you in our prayers as our hearts and love reach out for you.
Bob & Irene Seeling
Mike and Anne Marth
April 25, 2021 at 4:27 pm
Betsy,
So sorry to hear of the passing of Jim. A sudden passing like this is very hard to understand. Please know that your many friends and family are praying for you and your children and are there to support you. We will keep you all in our prayers.
Fred Hoppock
April 27, 2021 at 11:17 pm
Omg!! I can’t believe it! Seems like I just talked to him. So sorry, I didn’t find out until today. My aunt and uncle just informed me! I’m always the last to know. My sincerest condolences go out to your family! He will be missed.
Theresa Kratschmer and the IBM Tech Sales Team
April 28, 2021 at 10:23 am
Gordon and family – We are so very sorry for your loss. Our sincerest condolences to you and your family.
Bob and Ann Myers
April 29, 2021 at 3:27 pm
OMG, we heard the tragic news today from Dan and Diane via text message. We are devatated by the news.Our hearts go out to you, Betsy. I cannot imagine the heartbreak and shock of losing Jim. We are truly saddened for you and the entire family. We loved Jim’s smile and constant friendly demeanor. We have you in our prayers and mourn your loss as one together. Keeping you and Jim in our loving thougths and hearts. Deepest Regrets, Bob & Ann Myers
Robert R Wagner
June 21, 2021 at 2:13 pm
Dear Besty & family,
I just learned of Jim’s passing from our Naples Velo group. So sorry for your loss. We loved riding with Jim in Naples. What a great guy!
We will miss him dearly. Hopefully when the group reunites in the winter we can do a ride in his memory. Our thoughts & prayers are with you. Sincerely, Bob Wagner – Naples/Massachusetts
Russ Lund
June 21, 2021 at 2:28 pm
My thoughts and prayers to the whole family. Jim and I befriended each other in the Naples Velo cycle group. We were both new in joining this great group of riders. We were both on Marco Island and would often take rides together. He was a strong rider and great conversationalist. Since I was new to the sport, he always took extra time to explain things to me or give me advice from this biking coach. I really enjoyed his company and sharing stories about family and hobbies. He will be greatly missed by all. He was a great, caring man.