James Albert McDanel

James Albert McDanel, 87, of New Brighton, passed away at his home, Monday, March 27, 2023.

Born January 14, 1936, he was a son of the late DeWayne “Red” and Virginia (Nesselrode) McDanel.  Jim proudly served in the USMC where he was a boxer.   He was a retired conductor for Conrail and was a member of the Beaver Falls American Legion, Post #261.  In his younger days he played football, was a runner and weightlifter.  Jim was known for his infectious laugh and his booming voice that would light up a room and you knew he was there before even seeing him. He was a light hearted man who loved spending time with his family and friends.  Jim loved history, telling stories, and going to the movies.

Surviving is his children, Kristen (Bill) Eaton, and Jim McDanel, grandchildren, Bret, Bailey, and Lauryn Eaton, and Jayme Murphy, sisters, Katherine (Paliani) Covert, AZ; Patricia Lepera, CA; Barbara Munsterman, AZ, sisters-in-law, Joann McDanel and Carol McDanel, nieces and nephews, Robert (Sally) McDanel, Ron (Garylynn) McDanel, Matt (Renee) McDanel, Kathy (Rusty) Luzell, and close friends, LeRoy “Fats” Mooney and Jerry Fry.

Along with his parents he was preceded in death by his brother, DeWayne “Bunky” McDanel, stepfather Charles Bell, and his father Pat Paliani.

Friends will be received Sunday, April 2, 2023, from 12 pm until time of service at 4 p.m. in the J & J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Ave, New Brighton.   Pastor Donald W. MacNeil, officiating.

The VVA Chapter #862 will provide military honors Sunday for Jim at 4:30 p.m.

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