RACINE – James A. Petrach, 82, passed away surrounded by family at Wheaton Franciscan All Saints in Racine on Saturday, February 21, 2015. James was born in Racine on August 21, 1932 to John and Marie (nee, Mattal) Petrach. He is a graduate from Park High School. On August 20, 1982 James married the former Sharon Kunz. After serving his country for four years in the U.S. Air Force, he served his community in the Racine Fire Department for 31 years. He retired from the Fire Department in 1988. In his free time, James loved spending time at his log cabin in Coloma, WI. When he wasn't there relaxing, he enjoyed looking for great deals at rummage sales, eating out, vacations and cruises with family and friends and cruising around in his yellow convertible. Most of all, he enjoyed celebrations and activities with his grandchildren.Survivors include his wife, Sharon Petrach; children, Kim (Steve Borkowski) Hansen, Charles (Rachel) Petrach, Addison (Lizabeth) Tower and Cameron Tower; grandchildren, Veronica Petrach, Ezekiel Petrach, Sarah Tower and Preston Tower; brother, Robert (Marion) Petrach of Keller, TX; sisters-in-law Marilyn Petrach of Rockford, IL and Kay Kunz. James is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and great friends. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Melanie Tower; brother, Frank Petrach; sister, Rose Lombardo; brother-in-law, Carl Lombardo and his mother-in-law, Nona Williams. Funeral services for James will be held at Purath-Strand Funeral Home on Friday, February 27, 2015 at 5:30 p.m. with Rev. Tony Larsen officiating. Private interment will take place at Bohemian National Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the funeral home on Friday from 3 p.m. until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Racine Fire Belles or Stars & Stripes Honor Flight.