James Frederick Lynch, Jr.
James Frederick Lynch, Jr.
James Frederick Lynch, Jr. passed away peacefully at home on May 12, 2026, at the age of 79, under sunny blue skies and surrounded by the love of his family.
Jim was born on Dec. 31, 1946, in Lewistown, the son of the late Grace Anne Bruce and James Frederick Lynch, Sr.
As an Army brat, Jim lived in many places throughout his childhood, including Germany, and graduated from Heidelberg American High School.
After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving for four years and spending part of that time deployed to Vietnam, where he was a convoy commander. Jim earned the rank of Captain during his service, receiving numerous badges, commendations and service medals.
Following his military career, Jim attended Penn State University, earning a degree in Political Science with a minor in International Relations. While a student, he served as president of the Vets Organization.
After graduating, Jim worked in the Office of Veterans Affairs at Penn State, first as an Outreach Assistant and later as Coordinator of Veterans Affairs. When asked what he was most proud of, he often said that one of his greatest accomplishments was being instrumental in making PHEAA State Grants available to all Pennsylvania veterans.
Jim later followed his passion for international relations, moving from Veterans Affairs to International Student Affairs at Penn State as an Assistant Director. He was eventually promoted to Director of International Students and Scholars, where he supported students in all aspects of academic and campus life.
Jim was active in numerous professional organizations, frequently serving in leadership roles.
Jim is survived by his wife of more than 35 years, Jane Kone, of Howard; his children, James Kundart (Alicks), Heather Thomas (Russ), Luke Ebeling (Nicole), Sarah Stere (Steve) and Rachel Ebeling-Labant (Kirsten).
He was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren, Carter, Ava, Piper, Simon, Harper, Olivia and Oliver. He is also survived by his brother, Tim Lynch; and survived by his beloved pets, Guinness, Murphy and Ash.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Dennis; and his sisters, Carol Weir and Patricia ‘Blue’ Simpson.
Jim’s life was defined by service. He volunteered as a Little League coach for his son James’s team, and after retiring from Penn State, he continued to give generously of his time.
Over the years, he volunteered with Centre Wildlife Care, Centre County PAWS, the Pennsylvania Military Museum in Boalsburg, T&D’s Cats of the World and the Faith Center Food Bank. He also served as a poll worker during elections.
Jim especially loved spending time with the animals at T&D’s Cats of the World — particularly “his” cats — and affectionately referred to the Faith Center Food Bank as his “Cheers.”
Jim found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved spending time with his family and pets, and he could often be found with a good book in hand, especially anything tied to history. He cherished his time outdoors, particularly his annual shad trips and his visits to Lake Ontario with longtime friends.
He will be missed by many.
A viewing will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20, at Daughenbaugh Funeral Home in Milesburg, Pa.
In accordance with Jim’s wishes, private services and interment will take place at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville, Pa.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to T&D’s Cats of the World, the Faith Center Food Bank or the World Wildlife Fund — three of the many organizations Jim loved and supported.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, Inc. in Milesburg.
An online guest book can be signed, or you may post your condolences to the family at www.daughenbaughfuneralhome.com