James Anthony Vitale

James Anthony Vitale, 66, of Moon Township was called home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born to Josephine (Calabrese) Vitale and the late Domenic Vitale. He is survived by his wife of 37 years Luanne (Koch) Vitale; his two children Maria and Bob Vitale; his mother Josephine Vitale; his brother Nick (Debbie) Vitale; and his sisters Denise (Frank) DeFerrari and Diane (Ron) Debiec. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Jim was a graduate of Hopewell high school and a proud alumnus of Robert Morris University. For decades, Jim's unwavering spirit and dedication were deeply woven into the fabric of his alma mater. He first joined the Colonial Athletic Club as a member and later served as club president and became an inaugural supporter of the 1921 Club. In 2010, Jim received the annual RMU Athletics Appreciation Award for his commitment and service.

For 20 years, Jim passionately served as the Chairman for the annual RMU Hockey Golf Outing. He was a founding board member and treasurer of the Pittsburgh College Hockey Foundation. Jim's enthusiasm extended to organizing alumni and fan trips, traveling as far as Anchorage, Alaska, to support student-athletes.

Jim was a charismatic individual, a lover of life who meticulously balanced his family life with civic responsibilities. He served on the Moon Township Board of Supervisors for nearly 18 years, holding the positions of Chairman or Vice Chairman for 11 of those years. Additionally, he was a member of the Moon Transportation Authority from 2020 to 2025. He represented the township on the Board of Directors of the South Hills Area Council of Governments for 15 years. His compassionate leadership didn’t stop there. In 2014, Jim formed an alliance with Robert Morris University to create the Moon Economic Development Committee, aimed at promoting residential, commercial, and industrial growth throughout the township.

He also advocated for children and families through his involvement in the Mooncrest Neighborhood Programs. He participated and served as Chairman of the Advisory Board for 10 years. He guided the Fund Development Committee and initiated an annual golf fundraiser in honor of Sr. Rene Procopio.

Jim not only volunteered his time but also was willing to take the lead. He was truly special, and people couldn’t help but follow his example. He believed in each mission and led in a manner that inspired others to engage with their community. His energy was unique, and his caring nature was genuine. The impact he made on his family, friends, and community was profound.  His goal was always to leave a group or place better than he found it, and support people along the way.

Visitation will be on Wednesday April 30, 2025 from 2-4pm and 6-9pm at Copeland’s Moon Township 981 Broadhead Road. A Mass will be held at St. Margaret Mary Church 1 Parish Place Moon Township on Thursday May 1, 2025 at 10:00am (Everyone please meet at church).

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in his name to:

Mooncrest Neighborhood Programs 308 Hemlock Drive Moon Township PA 15108.

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