James H. McArtney, Swing Era bandleader
James H. McArtney, 84, of Snyder died Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008.

McAr tney

Born in Snyder, he was a 1941 graduate of Canisius High School and learned piano during a year when he was home from school with polio. Also a vibraphone and bass player, he earned his bachelor's degree from Canisius College in 1948.

Mr. McArtney was a popular local Swing Era bandleader, who played for many high school and college proms in the 1940s and 1950s and was a favorite at country clubs and weekly dances for 30 years.

He put himself through college with the money he earned with his 14-piece band, Buddy Mack Orchestra.

Mr. McArtney married his vocalist, Alice Krieger, in 1948.

He worked at Spencer Lens during World War II and after college became a manufacturer for industrial products. His job required him to travel, and along with changing musical tastes, he had to end his musical career in the 1960s.

He started his own business, Mack Industrial Sales, became district manager for Acma Resin Co., later Borden Co., retiring in 1987.

Mr. McArtney ran marathons until he was 60. He continued jogging until his death.

He was a bat boy for the Buffalo Bisons in the 1930s, having his picture taken with Babe Ruth in 1934.

Mr. McArtney is survived by his wife, Alice; son, Ken; daughter, Barbara; brother, the Rev. Robert; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Services were held Saturday, Feb. 9 at Christ the King Church.

Arrangements were made by Dietrich Funeral Home.