James R. Schlag Jr., a beloved Pearl River, NY resident for 50 years, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2025, at the age of 84. Jimmy dedicated his career to working as an electrician for Local 3 in New York City, proudly serving as an active I.B.E.W. union member for an impressive 65 years.
Born to James and Loretta Schlag on March 7, 1940, in the Bronx, NY, he completed his education there, graduating from DeWitt Clinton High School in 1958. With a sense of duty, he served in the Air National Guard from 1963 to 1968, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant and earning Sharp Shooter designation. He also enjoyed being part of the Air National Guard Bowling team, traveling to tournaments in Texas and New Orleans.
On May 14, 1966, he married the love of his life, Eileen Lekow, at Holy Spirit R.C. Church in the Bronx. They joyously began their family in Hartsdale, N.Y. eventually moving to Pearl River in 1975. In the community, Jimmy was a member of the Pearl River Elks, coached Pearl River Little League for an impressive 21 years, and was a devoted member of St. Aedan R.C. Church for 50 years. He found joy in playing Lotto, bowling, fishing, and collecting coins, but his greatest happiness came from being “Pop” to his eight cherished grandchildren.
Jimmy enjoyed his multiple daily trips to Shop Rite, where he would happily run into friends and former players he had coached over the years. He is lovingly remembered by his children Jim (Theresa) and Tara (Timothy) Caulfield, and will be missed by his grandchildren Robert, Charlotte, Mariel, James, Ryan Caulfield, and Jimmy, Luke, Jillian Schlag, as well as his cousin Jimmy Formont (Susan). Jimmy also leaves behind many dear nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his beloved wife Eileen, who passed away in November 2017.
A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday at St. Aedan R.C. Church in Pearl River, followed by interment at St. Anthony Cemetery in Nanuet, NY. Friends and family are welcome to visit Wyman-Fisher Funeral Home Inc. on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 3 to 7 p.m.