James Louis "Jim" McCracken, 79, of Albany, NY, formerly of State College; died Saturday, July 10, 2010 at the VA Albany Medical Center in Albany, NY.
He was born April 19, 1931, in Johnstown; a son of the late William Henry and Bernice Johnson McCracken.
Mr. McCracken served in the U. S. Army near the end of the Korean War, and was honorably discharged January 8, 1953.
An accomplished cook and culinary professional, Mr. McCracken spent most of his life in food preparation in schools, hospitals, and restaurants.
He was a former member of the State College American Legion and earlier in life played the trumpet and also played a bugle with the State College Drum and Bugle Corps.
Surviving him is one brother, William McCracken and his wife Juana of Duluth, GA; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 7, 2010, at Mark D. Heintzelman Funeral and Cremation Service, 1034 Benner Pike, State College, PA, with the Reverend Rick Wilson officiating. Burial with Military honors will follow immediately at Centre County Memorial Park.
An on line guest book can be signed, or condolences sent to the family at www.heintzelmanfuneralhome.com.