James 'Jim' R Loncar

Jim Loncar of Charlotte, NC, passed away unexpectantly but peacefully in his sleep, on January 20, 2018. He was born December 3, 1941, in Cleveland, Ohio, the eldest son of Justine and Ignatius Loncar. Jim graduated from Collingswood High School and served in the United States Navy from 1960-1964. After his military service, he attended Cleveland Technical College on the GI Bill, where he earned an Associate Degree in Technical Mechanical Engineering. He had a 40+ year career in the commercial and industrial machine industry.

Jim married Patricia Ann Molestatore in 1967 in Homer City, PA, and the two celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this past year. Together they had three children, Michelle Loncar Ashworth of Charlotte; Kim Loncar Grimsley and husband Alex Ritchy of Greensboro; and Jimmy Loncar and wife Susan of Fort Mill, SC. Jim loved his grandchildren, and was “Pappa” to Justine Grimsley, and Jack and Hunter Loncar. He is survived by his beloved brother, Ronald Loncar and sister-in-law Dorothy, of Indiana. He also leaves behind many other nieces and nephews, and other members of extended family in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Michigan.

Mr. Loncar was very proud of his Croatian Slovenian heritage and his hobbies included playing the button-box accordion for over 35 years. He competed in button-box competitions during his younger adult years, and travelled to participate in polka festivals with his friend David Bey, well into his golden years. Jim was most happy riding his John Deere tractor, working in his yard, and doing woodworking projects in his workshop. He enjoyed his weekly breakfasts and conversations with his retirement groups.

Jim was strong willed and had strong opinions on the state of this world we live in. He was always the first to offer a helping hand to his children, neighbors, and friends. He was much loved by his family and will be greatly missed.

The life of Mr. Loncar will be celebrated at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Charlotte, NC, at 2pm on February 24, 2018. His family welcomes all, and also invites you to attend a reception immediately following the ceremony in the church’s Fellowship Hall. The ashes of Mr. Loncar will be interred at Sharon Memorial Park cemetery in a private family ceremony. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Patrick’s Cathedral or to the American Lung Association, in memory of Jim Loncar.