James "J.R." Monroe Rifenberrick

James "J.R." Monroe Rifenberrick, 75, of Hartstown, passed away Monday, June 15, 2026, at Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh.

James was born in Meadville, on June 12, 1951, a son of the late Lowry "Bud" and Helen (Boyer) Rifenberrick.

A 1969 graduation of Linesville High School, J.R. entered the US Army on February 16, 1971 and served his country honorable during the Vietnam War. Following his honorable discharge on February 15, 1974, J.R. began working in the Parts Department of Walker Brothers Auto, and later Smith Gray, and Kirkpatrick Auto Sales. In 1984 he built and established his auto shop, J.R. Garage in Norrisville which he owned and operated for over 20 years. J.R. had a passion for racing. He built his own pure stock race car and began racing in the late 70's. He raced his car at tracks in Mercer, Knox, Sharon, Seven, Learnerville, the Crawford County Fair and others. For ten years after that he continued to race the cars of others. He was a big NASCAR fan, especially of Dale Earnhardt. A skilled pool player, J.R. played in various Pool Leagues including Crawford County, Meadville City, Valley, Lake Pool Leagues, and also shot for Vernon and Fat Boys. He competed in several state tournaments and also in Las Vegas, NV. J.R. was a self taught musician who loved to play any instrument especially the acoustic guitar, piano and violin. J.R. will be missed.

J.R. is survived by his partner Toni Carlson of Hartstown; two sisters Susan Harris of Kansas City, Kansas, Carol Rifenberrick of MO; nephews and nieces Eric Rifenberrick (partner Shelly Hofler) of Conneautville, Matthew Rifenberrick (Heidi) of Meadville, Jennifer VanHook of St. Louis, MO, Jackie Stay (David) of Omaha, NE; several great nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, J.R. was preceded in death by his twin brother John "Jack" Rifenberrick.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date which will be announced.

Arrangements by STEPHEN P. MIZNER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 404 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE.

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