James L. McCreary, 85, of Lititz, passed away on Monday, January 15, 2018 at Lancaster General Hospital after an illness.

He was the husband of Barbara J. Keech McCreary, his high-school sweetheart with whom he shared 62 years of marriage this past May 21st. Born in Altoona, he was the son of the late James L. and Rose Marie Roesch McCreary.

He was a graduate of Altoona Catholic High School and then was drafted into the US Army, where he served during the Korean War with the 2nd Armored Division in Germany. After his discharge, he attended Penn State University and graduated with an Associate's Degree in Electrical Design. James then worked for Armstrong World Industries as an electrical designer for 33 years. After he retired in 1997, he worked for Manheim Auto Auction, volunteered for Meals On Wheels of Lititz and at the Lititz Visitors Center. He was a Word War II history fan and was known as a happy, jolly soul.

In addition to his wife, Barbara, he is survived by his children: Linda McCreary DenBraven of Coatesville and Patrick J. married to Carina McCreary of Kinzers; his three grandchildren Scott, Carolyn, and Michael and his great grandson, Tyler. He is also survived by his sister, Dolores married to Jack Burket of Altoona. James was preceded in death by his brother, Donald (Margaret) and by his sister, Shirley (Bob) Mitchell.

Services will be private with interment in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in James' memory to Meals On Wheels of Lititz, c/o Lititz Church of The Brethren, 300 West Orange St., Lititz, PA 17543.