James "Jim" Francis Breen

James "Jim" Francis Xavier Breen transitioned into eternal life on 4/2/26 after a fierce battle with cancer. He was born on 8/29/59 in Harrisburg Pa to the late Francis J. Breen and Elizabeth W. Scales. He is survived by his wife and best friend, Jena (Bogar), his daughter Rachel J. Turner, his son James R. (Jimmy) Breen (Alexis), his grandchildren, James P. Breen, Sophia M. Breen and Alaina R. Breen. He is also survived by his brother, Robert T. Breen (Kendra) and niece Sydney. Numerous dear in-laws and cousins from the Bogar, Breen and Scales families survive him as well. He leaves behind many close friends, multiple athletes from soccer and hockey and many golf buddies. His grand-dog Ronnie will miss sitting by his side. 

Jim was a graduate of Central Dauphin High School and Penn State University. His highly skilled soccer journey began at an early age and continued well into his middle age of life. He excelled in track and field while at CD and played soccer for Penn State York/Harrisburg. 

He labored constantly from a young age working as a tow truck driver, sales person and electrician’s assistant. His calling was found when he started his 39 year career with the Social Security Administration. It began in Lancaster Pa followed by promotions to Harrisburg, York, Chambersburg, the Area Director’s office in Harrisburg and concluded in Lancaster as the District Manager of that office. 

He received many awards as an honored civil servant. His dedication to the public was deep and sincere. He proudly served and assisted the Amish community in Lancaster for many years. Jim strived to help fellow civil servants become the best they could be. 

In his time away from work he coached several youth ice hockey teams for the Capital City Vipers. He also coached a JV team for Cumberland Valley hockey. 

Jim (Pop Pop) spent his days in retirement enjoying his grandchildren, playing golf, going to Orioles games with his friend Jim, and reading books on American history and Winston Churchill. 

He loved bodysurfing and hanging out on the beach with Jena in Stone Harbor NJ. Family fishing trips on the Sea Star in Cape May were always fun. 

Jim was very proud of Rachel and Jimmy. He loved attending Rachel’s band and choral concerts as well as many play performances. Watching Jimmy play hockey from age 6 through the college level brought him great joy. He instilled a strong work ethic in both of them. 

Jim was an impeccable dresser and he loved his watch collection. He tended a fabulous garden each year and prided himself on caring for his home, family and neighbors. 

Born and raised in the Catholic faith, James has provided God with a true angel. He will be sorely missed. May he rest in peace. Slainte! 

Contributions in celebration of James’s life can be made to the American Cancer Society at American Cancer Society/donate/hope.html;">https://American Cancer Society/donate/hope.html; Homeland Hospice of Harrisburg who provided excellent care at https://wl.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E360289&id=4; or by volunteering time with youth organizations to make a difference in a young person's life.