James Edward Tobal, age 75 of Hopwood, Pa., passed away on Saturday, November 14, 2020 at UPMC Shadyside Hospital, Pittsburgh, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on October 4, 1945 in Uniontown, son of the late Peter A. Tabol and Sophia (Gabor) Tabol.

He is survived by his loving wife Patricia (Elleard) Tobal, with whom he would have celebrated 53 years of marriage on November 18; two sons, Ted Tobal (Kelly) of Hopwood, and Daniel Tobal (Kacy) of Huntersville, NC; three beloved granddaughters, Riley, Paige and Lucy who were his source of joy; a brother, Michael Tobal (Anita) a sister, Eileen Quarrick (Bernie); and a niece and three nephews.

He graduated from North Union High School Class of 1963, and earned his Bachelor of Science and Master's Degree in Education from California University of Pennsylvania.

Mr. Tobal retired from Laurel Highlands High School after 36 years as a History teacher, where he impacted the lives of countless students. He served as President of the Laurel Highlands High School Board of Education and the Fayette County Career and Technical Institution. He was involved with many local civic organizations and projects such as the Hopwood Village Project, Lions Club, and TIC Program as Educational Chair for the Chestnut Ridge Trout Unlimited. Since 1990 he was a member of the South Union Township Planning Commission. He was a proponent of the historical significance of Fayette County, and an avid sportsman and conservationist.

Following a private family gathering, he will lie in repose for the public at the Stephen R. Haky Funeral Home, Inc., 603 N. Gallatin Avenue Ext.,Uniontown, Pa. on Tuesday, November 17, from 3:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. Prayers of Transfer will be held Wednesday at 9:15 a.m.

The Funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church, Old Walnut Hill Rd., Uniontown, Pa. on Wednesday, November 18, at 10 a.m.

Interment will follow at Sylvan Heights Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Laurel Highlands Academic Foundation, c/o Joanne Phillian, Treasurer, 70 Wiggins Lane, Uniontown, Pa. 15401. (Be sure to list Tobal Scholarship in the memo.)

There will be a special celebration of his life when it is safe to gather again, for those who did not have the opportunity to express their condolences due to the COVID-19 restrictions. Your personal written tributes and memories are welcomed and encouraged at www.hakyfuneralhome.com .