James Harold Westgate

James Harold Westgate, age 79, born March 19th, 1947, in Erie, passed away on Friday, October 23, 2026, at UPMC Hamot Hospital surrounded by family.

James served as an MP in the US Army from 1966-1968. After his honorable discharge he worked as an auto technician and parts clerk at Bianchi Honda, retiring in 2014. He enjoyed dirt track racing and along with his sons, built and raced #16W for many years at Eriez speedway. Spent many summers boating on Lake Erie with friends and family enjoying the beautiful sunsets. He loved his Harley and was a long-time member of Erie H.O.G. He expressed his love of classic cars by restoring his 1970 Chevelle with his sons, and he could be spotted cruising round Erie most summers in his bright yellow classic. He was a member of the Flip Flop Cruise Group, and along with his wife enjoyed many cruises with his cruise group friends. He was a member of the Zukor Club, Erie Elks Lodge 67, Union Club, Sportsmen Club, American Legion Post 773.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Florence Pude; his siblings, Sharon Reynolds, Jeffrey Reynolds and Mark Reynolds.

James is survived by his wife, Wanda, who he met while bugging State Street, and his sons, Robert James (Heather), Shawn James (Katie) and David James. His beloved grandchildren Emmalee, Tyler, Ryan, Riley, Brooklynn, and Aidan. His sister Merry Jo Pude Trader, brother Russell Reynolds, and his special cousins Patty Popovich and Duane Churchill (Jill).

Friends are invited to call at Burton Quinn Scott Cremation & Funeral Services Inc. West Ridge, 3801 W. 26th St. Erie, PA on Friday October 30, 2026, from 3:00 PM until time of sharing 6:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, in honor of Jim, spend a little extra time with family and loved ones. Hug them a little tighter and tell them you love them.

Leave condolences at www.BurtonQuinnScott.com