James D. Braatz, 55, of Harlansburg Road, New Castle passed away the morning of May 16, 2016 at UPMC Jameson, after a lengthy illness. Born April 27, 1961 in New Castle, he was a son of Howard W. and Louise Pink Braatz. After graduating from Laurel High School, James attended Youngstown State University. He was the owner of a gardening business and an avid dirt bike rider. He attended Second Presbyterian Church. James is survived by his parents; two brothers, William H. (Shirley) Braatz, of Highland, MI and Richard L. Braatz, of New Castle; three nephews; two nieces; and eleven great nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death is one sister, Susan Fedrizzi; his maternal grandparents, Alexander and Mary Pink; and his paternal grandparents, Herman and Hazel Braatz. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 3:00-4:30 pm at R. Cunningham Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 2429 Wilmington Road, New Castle. A funeral service will take place immediately following visitation at 4:30 pm Wednesday at the funeral home with Pastor Chris Curtis of New Covenant Presbyterian Church officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made in James' name to Jameson Hospice of Lawrence County, 1211 Wilmington Road, New Castle, PA 16105 or to the American Heart Association, 840 Southwestern Run, Youngstown, OH 44514. Burial will be at Castle View Memorial Gardens. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.cunninghamfh.com.