Kenneth M. McCracken Jr.

Kenneth M. McCracken Jr., 75, of Altoona, passed away Sunday at UPMC Shadyside Hospital in Pittsburgh. He was born in Lewistown, son of the late Kenneth Sr. and Joyce (Haywood) McCracken. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother in law, Domenick W. Lestochi.

Surviving are his loving sister, Robin L. Lestochi; a niece, Christine M. (Ashton) Emigh; a great niece, Natalie; his Aunt Jane Shank, all of Altoona; and numerous cousins.

Ken “Kenny”  was a 1968 graduate of Altoona High School and a 1972 graduate of Robert Morris College with a B.S. in Business Management.  In 1973, he secured a position of retail management and eventually worked for two major retail companies.  He later went to work for Five Star Mitsubishi as a car salesman and semi-retired in 2016, but continued to work part time until April of 2025.

Kenny was a fiercely independent man known for his strong work ethic and dedication to those he loved.  Even after his diagnosis, he continued working; something that gave him purpose, connection, and joy.  Work was never just a job to him; it was where friendships thrived and where he stayed young at heart.  

He was practical, financially wise, and generous with his advice.  While he preferred simple things over extravagance, he never hesitated to help his family whenever they needed it.  Kenny believed strongly in staying informed, voting, and caring about what happened in the world. 

Kenny deeply honored his father, a B-24 tail gunner and prisoner of war, and dedicated years to preserving his legacy by writing a book titled A Lifetime of Courage.  A title reflecting his father’s bravery.  

He had a lifelong love of baseball and was a devoted season ticket holder for the Altoona Curve, often planning his work schedule around home games.  He also enjoyed traveling; whether visiting family, attending sporting events, or exploring new places.  

Above all else, Kenny loved Disney and Universal Studios.  A longtime season pass holder, he embraced the magic, the excitement of new attractions and the joy of experiencing the parks like a kid again.  Disney trips became cherished family traditions, filled with memories that will live on for generations.  

Kenny will be remembered for his playful teasing, his loyalty to family, and the quiet ways he always showed up when it mattered most.  

Friends will be received from 3pm until 6pm on Friday, January 23, 2026 at the Santella Funeral Home, where a funeral service will follow the visitation at 6pm. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kenneth M. McCracken Jr., please visit our floral store.