Donald James

"Jim" Garts

Donald James "Jim" Garts

Donald James "Jim" Garts, 91, of Erie, PA. passed away on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. Son of the late Clayton W. Garts and Hanna "Ruth" (Lowndes) Garts, he was born on January 12, 1935 in Greenville, PA.

He was a 1953 graduate of Penn High in Greenville, PA. A U.S. Army veteran, Jim was retired from the R.D. Werner Co. in Greenville, PA where he worked as a machinist's helper. He was an avid steam train fan, as well as a prolific photographer who enjoyed matting, framing, and woodworking.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine; his daughter, Marla Garts; step-daughter, Monica Buchanan Krieder (Frank); grandchildren, Angela Garts, Allison Krieder (Karl), and Adam Krieder; stepdaughter, Francine Bovard (Andrew); step-grandchildren, Rev. Christopher Bovard (Jessica), Erin Faith (Daniel), and Robert Bovard (Amanda); eight step-great grandchildren; two nieces, Sue Garts Zak, and Diane Lester Bell (Richard), and a nephew, Bill Lester (KJ Shannan).

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother and sister-in-law, William and Liz Garts, and a sister and brother-in-law, Katherine and Fred Lester.

Following Jim's wishes, there will be no viewing or visitation.

Jim wrote this goodbye to family and friends:
"WEEP NOT FOR ME, THE PAIN IS GONE AT LAST. I'VE HAD A GOOD LIFE, MET MANY FINE PEOPLE, AND RECORDED MUCH BEAUTY. IT'S BEEN A GREAT RIDE. SEE YOU ON DOWN THE LINE."