James "Jim" Bach, Sr.

James “Jim” Bach, Sr., age 80, passed away peacefully following a brief illness, surrounded by the love of his family. 

Born and raised in Pennsauken, New Jersey, Jim was a proud graduate of Camden Catholic High School, Class of 1963. During his time at Camden Catholic, he was a member of the legendary 1961 undefeated varsity football team, which was later recognized by the Camden Catholic Hall of Fame as one of the most dominant squads in program history and among the finest teams in New Jersey independent school football. In his senior year, Jim also showcased his love of the performing arts, portraying Harold Hill in The Music Man, a role he fondly remembered throughout his life. In addition to football, Jim enjoyed participating in other sports, including basketball, track and field, and baseball. 

Jim continued his education at La Salle University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics in 1967. He proudly served his country in the Army National Guard during the late 1960s.

Following college, Jim built a successful career as the owner of a real estate agency before transitioning into casino marketing and management, where he spent many rewarding years until his retirement in 2010 at the age of 65. 

Above all else, Jim was devoted to his family. His retirement years were filled with the people and activities he loved most-attending class reunions, gathering with lifelong friends and family, and taking great pride in the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. He especially enjoyed cheering on his grandchildren at dance recitals, tennis matches, soccer games, theater productions, school events, and countless other milestones. Nothing brought him greater joy than watching them grow and sharing stories of their achievements with family and friends. 

In his younger years, Jim enjoyed playing the saxophone and remained a passionate Philadelphia sports fan throughout his life. He was fiercely loyal to both of his alma maters, never betting against the Fighting Irish or the Explorers. Known for his warm smile, kindhearted nature, and unwavering positivity, Jim was happiest when surrounded by his children, grandchildren, relatives, and friends. He lived a full and cherished life, always placing family, friendship, and faith at the center of everything he did.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Dr. Tami Bach-Slonis, and her husband, Jamie Slonis, of Sewell, New Jersey; his son, James Bach, Jr., of Voorhees, New Jersey; and his beloved grandchildren, Natalya Slonis, Katarina Slonis, Milo Bach, Penelope Bach, and Emma Bach. He was predeceased by his parents, John and Marie Bach, and his brothers, John Bach and Joseph Bach. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. 

Farewell Tribute

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Andrew the Apostle Roman Catholic Church, 27 Crescent-Gibbsboro Road, Gibbsboro, New Jersey. Relatives and friends may visit Friday morning from 9:45 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. at the church. Christian burial will be held privately with the family at a later date.