James Stephen Myak of Erie, PA, formerly of Beaver, passed away following an unexpected medical incident on March 4, 2024.

Jim, 67, was born in Scranton, PA on February 20, 1957. He was preceded in death by his parents, Evelyn and Stephen Myak Jr. Jim will be greatly missed by his brothers, Robert (Gayle) Myak of Ohio, Kenneth Myak of Utah, and Thomas Myak of California; sisters, Judith (Larry) Parker of Virginia, and Karen Myak of Pennsylvania; brother-in-law, Dave Karaban; nephews, Robert and Greg Myak; and nieces, God-child Rachael and Jessica Myak, and Michelle Parker.

As a graduate of Beaver High School, Jim always came home for reunions. He was a man with a big heart. His friends can attest that he really loved socializing, always bringing family and friends together. Even in death, he provides an opportunity again to bring loved ones together to celebrate his larger than life spirt. Jim enjoyed an exciting career for more than 30 years as an Air Traffic Controller Supervisor with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration before retiring December 3, 2012. Jim had a real passion for music with an eclectic taste but undoubtedly had one favorite musician, Bruce Springsteen, in which he attended over 75 performances. More recently, Jim picked up a guitar and was hooked on learning all his favorite classic songs. Jim’s home was the focal point for friends and family events in which Jim was the most generous host including his Friday night gamers, his Tall Ship and Polish Festival weekends. Sitting around the campfire at his house, sipping on one of his rare bourbons, he loved reminiscing about his adventures, the glory days. He loved to travel to visit family, and his favorite place to go especially with his friends was Pigeon Forge. Jim’s other passion was working and supporting his friend’s local bar, Lefty’s in which he considered them as part of his family. The holiday spirit was large in Jim carrying on his Dad’s tradition of over-the-top decorations, generous gift giving and binge-watching all the Hallmark Holiday specials. He even dressed as Santa for his friends’ grandchildren and charity events.

Friends and family will be received Monday, March 11, 2024, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third St., Beaver, 15009. A brief prayer service will be conducted at 4 p.m. A Celebration of Jim’s life will be held at a later date in Erie, PA. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

Jim was deeply saddened by the loss of friends due to suicide. In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation to support the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org.