James "Gig" S. Boburka, Sr.

From the Roar of the Track to the Peace of Heaven

James “Gig” Boburka Sr., 80, of Kennedy Twp, passed away on Thursday, May 14, 2026, following a long-fought battle with cancer.  He was born February 1, 1946 in Pittsburgh to the late Stephen and  Antonette (Montesano) Boburka. James is leaving behind a legacy of dedication, hard work, and a deep love for family, friends, and the drag racing community. He was an accomplished NHRA drag racer whose passion for speed and competition brought him great pride, great friends that are family, and earned him the respect of many. James also devoted much of his life to the family Chevrolet dealership, where he served as service manager for over 50 years and became known for his expert knowledge, steady leadership, and commitment to his craft and General Motors.

Above all, James will be remembered for the many and lasting relationships he built throughout his life.  His family and friends meant the world to him.  He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Donna (Crivelli), son James (Katherine)Boburka.Jr., daughter Kristen (Joe) Gabrielli, sister Marlene (Donald) Brooks, grandchildren Zachary Boburka, Madison Gabrielli, Tyler Gabrielli, and Anthony Gabrielli, in-laws Anthony (Marlene) Crivelli, Ronald (Karen) Crivelli, Lynne Morris, and many nieces and nephews. He is proceeded in death by his parents, grandson Brandon Boburka, and his brother-in-law, best friend, and crew chief, James “Bones” Morris.  His kindness, loyalty, and love of life will be cherished by all who knew him, and his memory will continue to live on in the stories, laughter, and lasting connections he leaves behind.

Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Sunday, May 17, 2026 from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Anthony M. Musmanno Funeral Home, Inc. 941 McCoy Road McKees Rocks, (Kennedy Township) PA 15136. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, May 18, 2026 in St. Malachy Church. Interment will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in his honor to one of the following:

Sami’s Initiative (supports special needs children like his grand-daughter) 24 Cabindale Drive, McKees Rocks, PA 15136 

DRAW (Drag Racers Association of Women; supports individuals involved in a drag racing accident at a track); http://www.drawfasthelp.org

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