James F. Dynda, Sr. “the Legend has passed”

SHINGLEHOUSE, PA—James F. “Jim” Dynda, Sr., 82, of Shinglehouse, a former lifelong resident of Austin, passed away after a brief illness in his son’s home in Austin, on Monday, June 8, 2026, with his loving family by his side.
Born on Wednesday, January 12, 1944 in Coudersport, he was a son of John and Jane Housler Dynda.
For most of his life, Jim was employed as a pipeliner.
Left to cherish his memory are his three sons, James F. “Jimmy” (Rebecca) Dynda, Jr. of Austin, George A. (Kimberly Gockley) Dynda of Austin, and Pete L. (Amber) Dynda of Grove City; his loving companion, Jerri “Hun Bun” Olmstead of Shinglehouse; a son-in-law, Mark VanWhy of Austin; twelve grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; a brother, John (Judy) Dynda of Austin; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Jim was predeceased by a daughter, Felicia K. VanWhy; a grandson, Trevor A. Dynda; two sisters, Patricia “Sis” Friedl and Diane Gross; and his beloved dog, Jake.
In keeping with Jim’s wishes, there will be no public visitation or funeral services.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Jim’s name may be made to UPMC Cole Home Health and Hospice, 102-108 S. Main Street, Coudersport, PA 16915.
Jim’s family has entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Jim, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.





