Obituaries
James L. McCreary, 85
January 15, 2018
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.
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Condolences to the Family
January 19, 2018
Dear Mrs. McCreary, I was so sad to hear about Jim’s passing. I work at Pleasant View part-time and it was a pleasure to see both of you when I was on duty. I could see by the way you took care of him and spent time with him, how much love you had for each other. Love is what will carry you through as you mourn his passing. What a wonderful sweet man – all that knew him were truly blessed.
Condolences to you and your family. Penny Grubic
January 19, 2018
My sincere condolences to your family, in regards to the passing of Jim. I worked with Jim for many years at Armstrong and enjoyed being around him. I appreciated his engineering ability, his great work ethic and likeable happy attitude. He was truly a joy to be with.
Joe Jindela
January 18, 2018
A heart felt condolence for the loss of Mr MCCreary. The tribute to his life in the paper was beautiful.
Lynn we havent been in contact lately but nothing but love goes to you for the loss of your dad. Prayers for the whole family. Love Sherrie Trexler Wiley
January 17, 2018
Dear Barbara,
Jim and I worked together at Armstrong for many years. We traveled with George Dietz to Kankakee, Ill. and Jim was always great to work with. In the evenings at dinner we would talk about history. He had quite a lot of information on American Indians. He was more than a co-worker, he was a friend and I will miss him. I have many stories and great memories of him. I extend my deepest sympathy to you and your family. AS I said before he will be missed.
Tim Megonnell
January 17, 2018
Barbara – I just read about Jim’s passing and I want to extend my deepest sympathy to you and your family. I always enjoyed talking to Jim, he had a great sense of humor. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Sharon Leese Fort Myers, FL.
January 17, 2018
My sincerest condolences to you Barbara and your family, in regards to the passing of Jim. I worked with Jim for many years at the Armstrong Engineering Center, and held him in highest regards for not only his engineering ability, but also his great work ethic and likeable attitude. He was truly a pleasure to be with. I am truly sorry to learn of his death, and although I am presently in Florida, and not able to attend his service, I will say a special prayer for him today.
Tom Smith
