James Balester

James W. Balester of Chestnut Avenue, Kingston, died Wednesday, April 1, 2009, at home.

Born Dec. 12, 1925, in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Fred J., Sr., and Ruth Watrous Balester. He attended local grade schools and Elmer L. Meyers High School.

In 1942, he joined his father and brother in the family business, Balester Optical Co., located on North River Street, Wilkes-Barre. He retired having served as vice president and secretary.

He resided on Chestnut Avenue since 1959 and most recently his granddaughter, Tami Snow, resided with him. Jim was an avid photographer, responsible for taking family wedding photos. He and his family enjoyed spending time at the family farmhouse in Dorrance Township.

His wife, the former Kathleen J. Shea, died Dec. 28, 1999. Also preceding him in death were his son, James W., on May 15, 1972; and brother, Fred J. Balester, on Jan. 13, 2009.

Surviving are his children, William F. Balester and his wife, Marcia, Dorrance Township; Jacqueline A. Pekar and her husband, Mark, Sierra Vista, Ariz.; Dorothy B. Hodle, Kingston; Frederick P. Balester and his wife, Nancy, Hanover Township; Patrick J. Balester and his wife, Virginia, Gladstone, Mo.; Susan B. Dennis, Riverview, Fla.; 14 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Monday at 10 a.m. from Hugh P. Boyle & Son Funeral Home Inc., 416 Wyoming Ave., Kingston, with the Rev. Brian J. Clarke, chaplain of Holy Redeemer High School, Wilkes-Barre, officiating. Entombment will be in St. Mary's Mausoleum, Hanover Township.

Friends may call Sunday, 5 to 8 p.m.

Memorial donations may be made to the Epilepsy Foundation, 919 Walnut St., Suite 700, Philadelphia, PA 19107, or a charity of the donor's choice.