James Gordon Ambler Sr., 89, of Abington, a refrigeration and heating mechanic, died of heart failure Sunday July 16, 2006 at Abington Memorial Hospital.

Mr. Ambler became an apprentice with Steamfitters Local Union 420 in Philadelphia after graduating from Abington High School in 1935. He remained a union member for more than 50 years.

During World War II, he served in the Army in the Philippines. After his discharge he was a mechanic for several companies in Philadelphia, including Acme Markets.

After retiring in the 1980s, he continued to “be active in the trade,” repairing and installing heating and air-conditioning units for friends and family until seven or eight years ago, his son James Jr. said.

He was a member of Abington Volunteer Fire Company for 49 years and was a past president.

Mr. Ambler enjoyed spending time at his summer home in Brigantine. He played every week with the Seniors Organ Club at Taylor Music Studio in Willow Grove.

In addition to his two sons, he is survived by another son, Jeff, a brother; and six grandchildren. Mr. Ambler’s wife of 58 years, Margaret Stinson Ambler, died in 1998.