James T. Valasek, 81, of Kittanning, passed away on Monday, December 22, 2025 at Butler Memorial Hospital.  He was born June 10, 1944 in Kittanning to the late John and Mary (Kazor) Valasek.  He worked at Pullman Standard, Bracken Construction and Asplundh Tree Service.  James was a U.S. Army veteran, serving during Vietnam.  He was a member of First Baptist Church in Ford City and St. Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe Roman Catholic Church in Kittanning.  He also belonged to the Ford City VFW.  James enjoyed building race cars and showing his three antique cars.  He built carburetors and motors for people.  He loved hunting, fishing and spending time at camp in Benezette.  Survivors include his wife, Karen (Riskosky) Byron-Valasek, of Kittanning; son, Michael (Melissa) Valasek, of Ford City; grandsons, Brandon (Bree) Valasek, of Kansas and Jake Valasek, of Ford City; step children, John Byron (Beth), of Kittanning, Trishia Galanis (Jeff), of Cadogan, Michael Byron (Andie), of Arnold and Sarah Shoop (Dan), of Ford City; step grandchildren, Hendrix Shoop, Xander Byron and Brandon Davis; step great-grandchildren, Trey, Matthew, Aline and Amiela; sister, Mary "Mimi" Toy; and brothers, John "Cork" Valasek and Tom "Skinny" Valasek (Jackie).  In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his first wife, Kim (Smith) Valasek; and brother, Richard Valasek.  Friends will be received from 10 a.m. on Friday, December 26, 2025 until time of funeral service at 12 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 2230 Center Ave., Ford City, PA 16226 with Pastor Tim Kutch officiating.  Interment will be in Ford City Cemetery.