James M. Poncavage, 71 of East Scranton, died Monday after being stricken ill at home. His wife the former Charlotte Detrick Poncavage, died in 1991. Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late John and Ann Habuda Poncavage. James received his secondary education at Girard College of Philadelphia and his Bachelor of Science degree from Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh and was commissioned an Army 2nd Lieutenant from the ROTC Program upon graduation. He served in Vietnam as a Captain assigned as an Artillery and missile specialist with the 101st Airborne Division. Captain James was awarded the Bronze Star, National Defense, Vietnam Service, Vietnam Campaign, Good Conduct Medals, two Overseas Bars, and the Parachutist Badge. After his discharge from the Army, James worked as a signal engineer and retired as a mechanical engineer from Tobyhanna Army Depot. He was a former member of SS Peter & Paul Russian Orthodox Church, West Scranton. He is survived by sons, John J. Poncavage, The Hideout, Michael A. Masgula and wife Ogjeana, Lake Ariel, grandchildren, Michael, Gavin, Amanda, Sean, Tori, brothers, John J. Poncavage, of whom James resided with, Scranton, Edward Poncavage and wife Judith, Platt City, MO, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was also predeceased by one son, James Masgula and one granddaughter, Jillian Masgula. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday morning at 9 am, with Mitred Archpriest Basil Micek officiating, in the Edward J. Chomko Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 262 Railroad Avenue, West Scranton. Interment with Military Honors will follow in Dunmore Cemetery. Viewing for family and friends will be on Friday, in the funeral home, 4 to 7 pm.
