James Robert Kiseda, age 99, passed away peacefully at home in Hopewell Jct, NY on January 2, 2024. He lived a long and fulfilling life.
James was born on December 7, 1924 in Monessen, PA to the late Rose and George Kiseda. After graduating from Brentwood High School in 1942, he began working for the Carnegie Illinois Steel Corporation in Pittsburgh.

He served in the army during the Korean War where he discovered a talent for electronics. After placing first in his training class on guided missile systems, he spent the rest of his military career as an instructor training other troops on this technology.

After discharge from the army in 1952, he matriculated at the University of Pittsburgh and, in the span of four years, earned both a Bachelor and Master of Science degree in electrical engineering. After graduation, he was recruited by IBM to work at the original Watson Research Facility in Yorktown Heights, NY. He finished out his 30 year career at the IBM East Fishkill facility.

In 1954, he married the late Virginia H. Pataki, his beloved wife of 52 years. James and Virginia were accomplished ballroom dancers. In their later years, they enjoyed travelling all over the country to attend various dance events.

James was also a lifelong track and field enthusiast and an excellent athlete in his own right. In high school, he competed on the track team, and in 2004, at the age of 80, renewed his love of the sport by competing in the New York State Empire Games. He went on to compete in these games for the next 15 years, taking home several gold medals every year. In 2015 at the age of 90, he was selected to compete in the National Championship meet in Minneapolis, a prestigious event hosting 22,000 top athletes from around the country. He medaled in discus and javelin at this event.

James was preceded in death by his brother George Kiseda and his wife, Virginia Kiseda. He is survived by his two children: James J. Kiseda of Hopewell Jct, NY and Susan Kiseda of Redondo Beach, CA. His legacy of achievement, hard work and dedication to his family will be remembered by all who knew him.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday January 10th from 4-7 pm at the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc. 895 Route 82 Hopewell Junction. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday January 11th at 11 am at St. Denis Church 602 Beekman Rd. Hopewell Junction, followed by burial in St. Denis Cemetery.