James David Mundo, the beloved anchor of our family, completed his journey on earth on May 5, 2026. While history will remember him as an innovator in the automotive and aerospace industries, his family will remember the man who believed a sharp mind was best used in the service of those he loved.
James was a man who never stopped learning. His journey began with a rigorous education at John Carroll University and the University of Michigan. Still, he was exceptionally proud of his degree in Aerospace Engineering from Northrop University. These years weren’t just about the titles; they were where he honed the “high standards” that would define his life. He viewed his education as a toolkit—one he would use to build a safer world for everyone.
James began that path at McDonnell Douglas, where he had the rare privilege of contributing to the Moon landing missions and the engineering of the F-15 fighter jet. Yet, despite these monumental achievements, James remained grounded.
When he joined Ford Motor Company, he became a key figure in the Team Taurus project, revolutionizing automotive design. As the founder of American Auto Design, he dedicated his final professional chapters to the science of Crashworthiness. Holding two patents and spending decades as a preeminent expert witness, driven by a singular, compassionate goal: protecting people. His passion wasn’t just in the machines he built, but in the lives he saved through the rigorous safety standards he helped establish.
At the center of James’s world was his devoted wife of 46 years, April Mundo. She was his foundation, and together they built a life defined by loyalty and shared vision. His daughter Trully was the spark in his eye, and he was her confidant and greatest advocate; her “person”.
James took as much pride in the construction of their home, Graystone Manor, in the Eastern Upper Peninsula of Michigan as he did in any engineering project—it was a testament to his skill and his desire to provide a sanctuary for those he loved.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Domenico and Maria; his siblings, Donna and Dom; and Sally, the mother of James, Jeannie, and Andrew.
He is survived by his wife, April, and his daughter, Trully (Eric). He is also survived by his children, James, Jeannie (Marc), and Andrew; grandchildren: Katie, Sarah, Anthony, Lilly, Jacob, Vincent, twins Alexander and Benjamin; great-grandchildren Miles and Avery; and sisters Fran and Cathy.
He leaves a gaping hole in our hearts, but that hole is simply a measurement of the impact he had on our world. We are eternally grateful to have had the privilege of calling him ours.
He will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Services:
• Visitation: Saturday, May 16, 2026, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM. at the Samuel Teolis Funeral Home and Crematory Inc., 309 Spring Ave., Ellwood City, Pa 16117
• Blessing Service: 1:00 PM at Samuel Teolis Funeral Home and Crematory Inc.
• Interment: Wurtemburg Cemetery.
In place of flowers, donations may be made to the STEM Scholarship program by calling 724-773-8508 to ensure his passion for science and safety lives on in the next generation.
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