James G. Vadnal

James Glenn Vadnal, 70, of Jefferson Twp, PA passed away with members of his family by his side at UPMC Shadyside on April 6, 2023.

Born November 18, 1952 in Pittsburgh, PA, Jim adored growing up on his family farm, where he later returned to build his dream home and work on the land in his free time.

Jim was a proud Knoch High School graduate where he played for the Knoch Knights football team.  He enjoyed going to the Friday night football games to cheer on his fellow Knights.  He graduated from Waynesburg University with a BS in Geology and Marshall University with a Masters of Science in Safety with an emphasis on mining. 

He retired in January 2023 from a dynamic career in the mining and geology industry, leaving a long-time position with the US Department of Labor, ensuring safe practices in mining.  He was nominated for the Syd and Felicia Peng Ground Control in Mining Award in 2022 due to his passion for advancing technologies in mining safety. He was proud to be a mentor to many young geologists and mining engineers, sharing his wealth of knowledge to the next generation.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Linda (Graff) Vadnal, his 3 children: Derek (Jamie) Vadnal  of O’Fallon, IL, Melanie(Chad) Stewart of O’Fallon, IL, and Gregor (Lori) Vadnal of Troy, IL; and 8 grandchildren all of Illinois; His Brother Matthew (Karen) Vadnal of Seattle, WA and his sister Connie (LV) Turner of Columbia, KY.  He is preceded in death by his parents Rose and Stanley Vadnal and his sister Jane Vadnal.

He also leaves behind his loving ‘step’ family of 3 children, their partners, and seven grandchildren.

Friends will be received from 2-4 & 6-8 on Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at the Fox Funeral Home, Inc.  Saxonburg.   Funeral services will be held on Wednesday April 12, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Alex DeRosa officiating.

Memorial donations may be made to New Life Christian Ministries,139 Knoch Rd, Saxonburg, PA where Jim was a proud parishioner. 

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