James "Jim" Recupero, Jr.

James “Jim” Recupero, Jr., 82, of Dillsburg, PA, passed away on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at home. Born on April 17, 1943, in Pittsburgh, he was the son of the late James M. and Emma (McCarthy) Recupero.

Raised in western Pennsylvania, Jim graduated from Indiana Area Senior High School in 1961 and went on to serve his country in the U.S. Air Force. After his military service, he returned home and began a career in trucking—first with Perfetti Trucking and then with UPS, where he would spend nearly his entire professional life. His work with UPS eventually brought him and his family to Dillsburg, where they made their home for the decades that followed. Jim drove tractor-trailers throughout the northeastern United States and retired after an impressive 41-year career.

Jim was a proud member of American Legion Post 26 and VFW South Mountain Post 6771, both of Dillsburg, as well as the National Street Rod Association and the Williams Grove Historical Steam Engine Association. Jim was a parishioner of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Mechanicsburg, and he and his wife found joy in giving back to the community through their volunteer work with New Hope Ministries.

In his free time, Jim enjoyed restoring classic cars and traveling to car shows. Over the years he owned many vehicles, but his ’64 Impala was a particular point of pride. When his children were young, he made family vacations to Wildwood, NJ, an annual summer tradition.

Jim was a natural storyteller, but he was equally gifted at listening—truly hearing others, recognizing their needs, and stepping in without hesitation. He never sought recognition and embodied the spirit of giving without expectation. Humble and nonjudgmental, he was grateful for the blessings in his life. He adored his wife and children, and he delighted in being “Pop Pop” to his very special great-niece, Audrey, and great-nephew, Elias.

Jim will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Surviving Jim is his son, Frank Recupero (wife, Cindy) of New Cumberland; a sister, Karen Fry of Armagh; and a large extended family. Additionally, he leaves behind a great-nephew and niece, Elias and Audrey, to whom he and his wife were very close; and a very special person who stepped up to help him tremendously throughout his declining health this past year, Jason “Clint” Claypool. In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Vernelia G. (Barr) Recupero (d. 2024); and a son, Bruce Recupero (d. 2024).

A funeral service will be held at 4PM on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Parthemore Funeral Home & Cremation Services, New Cumberland, with a public viewing taking place from 2PM until services begin in the funeral home. Burial will be private and held at the convenience of the family in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to either: New Hope Ministries, 99 W. Church Street, Dillsburg, PA 17019, or the Children’s Garden of St. John’s, 44 W. Main Street, Shiremanstown, PA 17011.