James John Barabas

James J. Barabas, 69, of Erie, passed away Friday, August 28, 2026 at LECOM at Presque Isle after an extended illness . He was born June 2, 1957 in Erie, a son of the late Joseph and Margaret (Chermack) Barabas.

Jim attended Holy Family Grade School, Cathedral Preparatory, University of Pittsburgh Titusville Branch and graduated from the University of Pittsburgh Main Campus with a degree in Physical Therapy.

In his younger years he was interested in sports, especially Little League baseball, basketball, and football and remained an avid sports enthusiast, with a particular passion for following the Pittsburgh Steelers.

He worked as a Physical Therapist at Keystone Rehabilitation before opening his own practice called Barabas Physical Therapy in Girard, until his retirement.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Judith (Mussett) Barabas; two brothers, Joseph and William Barabas; and a step-son, Troy Bielak.

He is survived by his sister, Mary Ann Tempestini (Dan); two step-sons, Ed Bielak, Jr. and Darrell Bielak (Christin Martin); sister-in-law, Colleen Barabas O'Bannon (Jerry); and aunt, Sande Chermack and her family. He is also survived by two step-granddaughters, Bethany Scott and Becca Bielak, a step-grandson, Zachary Martin (Nichole), a great step-granddaughter, Jayda Scott and four nephews, many cousins, and his beloved dog, Sugar.

Friends are invited to call on Saturday, September 5th at the John R. Orlando Funeral Home, Inc., 2122 Raspberry Street, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Service there at Noon. Inurnment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of ones choice.

The family would like to thank the Staff of UPMC, DaVita, and LECOM at Presque Isle for their compassionate care.