James R. Barge, age 65, of New Castle, passed away the early morning of May 4, 2023, in Butler County, PA.

Born February 18, 1958, in New Castle, he was the son of Russell D. and Marcelyn (Burkholder) Barge.

Jim is survived by his wife of 44 years, Lisa (Melder) Barge, whom he married April 28, 1979.

A graduate of New Castle High School in 1976, Jim became a pressman for several newspapers in the surrounding area, beginning with his employment at the New Castle News. He then worked for the Wall Street Journal, Youngstown Vindicator, and was days away from his retirement with the Butler Eagle.

Jim had a love for the Lord which was evidenced by his service at Calvary Independent Church as a Sunday school teacher, elder, youth group leader, choir member and AWANA commander. He could always be counted on to help in any capacity and enjoyed working at the church.

Family was most important to Jim. On September 3, 2022, he had the privilege of officiating his son's wedding and was able to baptize his grandson, Leyton.

In addition to his wife Lisa, he is survived by one daughter and her husband, Andrea and Dennis Wagner of Enon Valley, PA; a son and his wife, Matthew and Megan Barge of New Castle; three sisters and their husbands, Debbie and Tim McMillin of New Castle, Kathy and Jonathan Kimmel of New Bethlehem, PA, and Laurie and John Tall of Collegeville, PA; two grandchildren, Leyton Wagner and Avery Barge; father-in-law Robert Melder, Sr; three brothers-in-law, Robert (Founda) Melder, Jr., Trevor Melder and Steven Penny; a sister-in-law, Jamie (Richard) Moran; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; mother-in-law Marylou Melder; and sister-in-law, Julie Penny.

In keeping with Jim's wishes, there will be no services, however, the family has asked as a special request from Jim, that you take your children and go to church this weekend. "Go where the Word is preached and go often."

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be sent to Calvary Independent Church, 424 E. Moody Avenue, New Castle, PA 16101.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the R. Cunningham Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. of New Castle where online condolences may be offered to the family at www.cunninghamfh.com