James W. Smichnick – Cypress, Calif.

James W. Smichnick of Cypress, Calif., died Oct. 11, 2023, at the Kindred Paramount Hospital in Paramount, Calif. He was born July 3, 1947, in North Charleroi. He was the son of the late Mary and Metro Smichnick of North Belle Vernon. Jim attended Bellmar High School. He joined the United States Navy and served from 1964-68 during the Vietnam War. He attended California University at Long Beach and earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting. In 1967, Jim married Patricia Sundukos, who survives. Jim had his own tax business called James and Associates for over 50 years. He enjoyed gardening, especially his prized lemon tree and shared the bounty with friends and family. He loved going to the racetrack with his friend, Art.  He is survived by his sister, Linda Smichnick Barncord; brother, Samuel (Paula) Smichnick; and stepbrother, Charles Sonny (Janice) Haschets. He is also survived by nieces, Suzanne (Eric) Russell, Barbara Altamire and Jessica (Paul) Glace; nephew, Gregory (Suzette) Brletich; great-nieces, Samantha Russell, Heidi Russell, Elizabeth Glace and Sarah Altamire and her daughter, Shawnee; a great-nephew, Cameron Glace; and two special friends, Kenny Hayduk and Dan Brletich. He also is survived by many special aunts, cousins and an uncle. A burial in a National Cemetery in California is planned.