James T. Planitzer, Jr., 83 of Daytona Beach, died June 7, 2015. Jim was born on January 2, 1932 to the late James T., Sr. and Margaret (Forse) Planitzer in Pittsburgh, PA. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army Air Corps. He later served in Germany with the U.S. Army's 101st "Screaming Eagles" until honorably discharged in January, 1955. His careers in the automotive management and independent auto damage insurance appraisals in metro Pittsburgh spanned many decades. In retirement, he drove a school bus for Chartiers Valley Schools until retiring again in 1996.

He moved to Daytona Beach and became active with Volusia County School Transportation, where he was 2005 "Driver of the Year." He had many perfect attendance years. "Mr. Jim", as he was affectionately known, retired in 2013 after suffering a stroke. He then battled cancer for two years until finally passing away. He was a member of the Outreach Ministry at Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church as well as a life member of the VFW Post 3282 both in Port Orange, FL.

He is survived by his loving wife, E. Maureen Planitzer, Colonel, USMC, Retired, Ph.D., two sons; James T.,III (Kathy) and Anthony Konkiel, IV, a brother Robert (Lois) as well as many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews all of whom live near Pittsburgh. He was predeceased by his sister Audrey Naab, and his first wife Patricia. Contributions may be made to the Outreach Ministry at Our Lady of Hope in Jim's memory to help our less fortunate neighbors.

At Jim's request there will be no visitation. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Fr. Raymond J. O'Leary at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, July 9, 2015 at Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church, 4675 Clyde Morris Blvd., Port Orange. Interment with full military honors will occur at a later date at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, Cecil, PA. Arrangements are under the careful direction of Lohman Funeral Home Port Orange. Condolences may be shared with the family through this online guestbook.