James E. Mraz, M.D., one of the founders of Erie, Pennsylvania’s Orthopedic Surgeons, Inc., died on September 20, 2022, at St. Vincent Hospital, also in Erie, Pennsylvania.
Dr. Mraz served the orthopedic surgery patients of the region for more than 30 years and was affiliated with St. Vincent Hospital, specializing in general orthopedic surgery.
Mraz was born on October 9, 1936, in Erie to the late Dr. John J. and Janette Mraz. He graduated from Cathedral Preparatory School in Erie and then attended Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania. He earned his medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh Medical School in Pittsburgh.
Dr. Mraz served in the United States Navy for two years after completing his medical degree. He did his orthopedic residency at the University of Buffalo in Buffalo, New York.
When he wasn’t practicing medicine, Mraz enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He was married to his wife Carolyn for 62 years, and together they raised four sons, James, Gregg, Mark and Matthew.
His favorite hobbies were golfing and fishing. His family said he often said he had “bragging rights for three holes in one.” He was a member of the Siebenbuerger Club, Maennerchor Club, and the Kahkwa Club. He was also an active member of St. George Church in Erie.
Mraz was preceded in death by his parents and his two sisters Jeannie Constable and Judy Avampato and his brothers-in-law Joseph and Edward.
He is survived by his wife, sons, daughter-in-law Lori and his granddaughter Sara Grace. He is also survived by his brother, Dr. John “Jack” Mraz, a sister Joyce Mraz, brother-in-law Charles Avampato, two sisters-in-law Mary Kay Leonard and Jane Reuter, their husbands Al and Dave, and his nieces and nephews.
