Orchard Pump & Supply Company created a scholarship in memory of a former employee, James R. VanSickle of Selinsgrove. James passed away on July 16, 2024, at the age of 33. He was a devoted employee, known to bring a smile to every customer’s face.
James was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a progressive genetic muscle disorder, at the age of 3. Despite this, his life was defined by leadership, resilience, empathy, and kindness – values that served as his guiding principles. James found joy in even the smallest moments, always appreciating the beauty in life. Whether he spent time outdoors, enjoying music, engaging in conversation with friends, or meeting new people, he made the most of every opportunity. He never let his condition limit his possibilities and lived life to its fullest.
While he understood his physical limitations, they never overshadowed his dreams or vision for the future. It was this mindset that propelled him to earn his bachelor’s degree from Susquehanna University, graduating Summa Cum Laude. James was also proud of his professional career at Orchard Pump & Supply Company (OPSCO) in Winfield, Pennsylvania, where the sense of camaraderie and appreciation made him feel like part of a close-knit family.
Qualifications
- Resident in the Orchard Pump and Supply Company service area
- Attend an accredited college, university, or trade school
- Should have qualities that exemplify James: leadership, steadfastness, empathy, and kindness
- Preference given to applicants whose relative is an employee or customer of Orchard Pump and Supply Company or whose relative is employed by a company that is a customer of Orchard Pump and Supply Company
- Award chosen based on an essay and letter of recommendation