James “Jimmy” “Berger” Ebersberger

James “Jimmy” “Berger” Ebersberger, 81, of Latrobe moved on to his new, beautiful, heavenly home Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026. He passed away peacefully at home while holding hands with the “love of his life” of nearly 55 years, Kathleen.

Jimmy was born Oct. 15, 1944, in Latrobe, the son of the late James P. and Dolores (Mosso) Ebersberger.

He was a lifelong member of St. Vincent Basilica Parish in Unity Township, where he and Kathleen were married.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother.

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Kathleen; sister, Linda Wolfer of California; nephew Alex and his wife, Jane, also of California, and their two children, Isla and Charlotte. He is also survived by another nephew, Erich Holden.

After graduating from Latrobe High School with the wonderful Class of 1963, Jimmy attended PIA (Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics). Upon completing, he earned his pilot’s license, where became the copilot to Arnie Palmer’s pilot. Arnie encouraged him to further his mechanical education by attending various Lear Jet etc. courses. Jimmy then became the chief, licensed mechanic/inspector for Arnie, at Latrobe Airport. A private client requested that Jimmy hand-build/test a custom private plane for him, which Jimmy delivered. He also built a “powered parachute” and could be seen flying around the skies on a beautiful sunset evening. Jimmy was very mechanically oriented, especially if it pertained to planes or cars. He was particularly interested in Triumph TR6 cars. He owned more than one in his lifetime. He built his latest, a yellow 1971 TR6, while he was working at Elliott. Every one that he owned had to have a Snoopy decal on it, as he was a huge Snoopy fan. He also had a Snap-on tool business in the 1960s.

He then entered the Army National Guard, 28th Signal Corps. Jimmy was employed by the Volkswagen plant in New Stanton from the day it opened until the day it closed. He was also employed, as a steward, at The Touchdown Club in Unity Township for many years. It was there, he acquired a “family of close friends” that will never be forgotten. Jimmy retired from Elliott in Jeannette as an inspector with 19 years service in 2010.

He always had a “remodeling project” going on at his and Kathleen’s home in Lawson Heights. He had redone every inch of their home, both inside and out. He loved watching football games on TV, especially if the Steelers were winning (LOL). He was a very compassionate person who would help anyone in need. He was quite social and made friends very easily with everyone. Wherever he went, the fun followed. He had a great sense of humor and will be missed by everyone who was fortunate enough to know him.

Arrangements are being handled by Frederick Funeral Home Inc., 1543 Ligonier St., Latrobe, PA 15650. www.FrederickFuneralHome.com. All arrangements are private.

A very special thank-you to Joshua Loucks, M.D., who talked us through our darkest hour; the Rev. Paschal Morlino, OSB, who was our “friend” and was always there for us, and Kelly Frederick, we could not have made it through this without him. He has gone the extra mile. We are forever grateful. Also, the compassionate Hospice team, Maureen and especially Jimmy’s nurse, Connie. Last but not least, to all of our many friends who have supported us during this most difficult time in countless ways. You will never know how much you mean to us.

It has been a privilege and an honor to have taken care of you, my dear soulmate. I will hold you in my heart until we are together again.