James V. Lombardo

James Vincent Lombardo passed away peacefully on June 19, 2026, at the age of 86.

Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late James and Mary Anna (Hohenwarter) Lombardo.

In addition to his beloved wife of nearly 62 years, Stephany (Kerek) Lombardo, he is survived by his three daughters: Stephanie (Mark) Hinnenkamp of Vienna, Virginia; Lauren (Mike) Schreder of Charlotte, North Carolina; and Kristen (Lloyd) O'Toole of Espyville, Pennsylvania. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren, one great-grandchild, his brother, Paul Lombardo, and his sisters, Mary Ann King, Frances Spangler, and Ann Marie Lombardo.

Jim was a graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School and the Teterboro School of Aeronautics. His 55-year career in transportation began shortly after graduation with a flying service based at Teterboro Airport.

He proudly served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany as a helicopter crew chief with the 45th Medical Medevac Air Ambulance Unit.

Following his honorable discharge, Jim returned to Lancaster, where he worked for the former Hill Aviation and Allegheny Airlines at Lancaster Airport. He then spent much of his career in the transportation industry as part owner and Executive Vice President of Kerek Air Freight Corporation. Following his retirement, Jim continued his lifelong career in the transportation industry and was instrumental in launching a startup operation for a Virginia-based company with operations in Pennsylvania. He ended his distinguished career as Safety and Compliance Director for Unique Limousine in Harrisburg.

Jim enjoyed the outdoors and took great pride in caring for his yard and gardens. He especially enjoyed gardening, hunting, and spending weekends at his Alley Oop hunting camp in Lycoming County. Some of his most cherished times were those spent at the camp with his grandchildren who were often more fascinated by the outhouse than the wildlife.

Jim and Steph's favorite times together were traveling throughout Europe, particularly their visits to Italy. He also treasured the many spontaneous gatherings with family and friends, which were among his happiest and most memorable moments.

Jim was a member of St. John Neumann Catholic Church and belonged to the Santo Innocenzo Società, Sons of Italy, and the Italian American Citizens Club. He was also active in BPOE Lodge #134, where he oversaw the Duck Pin Bowling League alleys and was honored as Elk of the Year.

In addition, he belonged to American Legion Post 56, the Lancaster Liederkranz, the Royal Order of Malamente, and the Lancaster Italian Cultural Society, and he was a founding member of the Lancaster Bocce League.

Relatives and friends will be received by his family on Monday, July 13, 2026 after 10:00am in St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 601 E. Delp Road, Lancaster, PA 17601, where his Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00am with Rev. Fr. Clark Steitler officiating. Interment with military honors will be held privately in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Kidney Foundation or Wounded Warrior Project.