James S. Bracken
James S. Bracken, 68, of Avella, passed away on, Sunday evening, February 12, 2023, in his home surrounded by family.
He was born on February 20, 1954 in Pittsburgh, PA, son of the late Robert James and Dorothy Yonis Bracken.
Jim was a 1972 graduate of Burgettstown High School. He started out in the well drilling business in 1986 and owned and operated Jim Bracken Well Drilling from 1991 until 2016. During this time, he also worked at J & L Steel for 9 years, Robinson Pipe Cleaning, Overnite Transportation, J & L Structural, Horsehead and then Climax Molybdenum Co. for 11 years, retiring in 2016.
Jim grew up farming; and in 2013 he went back to his farming roots and currently has 100 head of cattle on his farm, CJB Farms LLC, named after his children. He was a hard worker and always made his family a priority.
On September 11, 1976 in Sacred Heart of Mary Church in Weirton, W.Va., he married JoAnn Rafacz, who survives.
Also surviving are his three children, Carisa (Kenny) McIlroy of Canonsburg, Jennifer (Kenny) Martin of Terre Haute, IN and James J. Bracken of Avella; four grandchildren, Masen and Wilson McIlroy and Lexi and Kenzi Martin; a step-grandson, Austen McIlroy; his two brothers, Robert (Debbie) Bracken of Imperial and John Bracken of Avella; along with his three additional brothers and three sisters; and several nieces and nephews.
No visitations will be held. A Celebration of Life will be held at the convenience of the family.
All arrangements are being handled by Jerome A. Stefkovich Funeral Home Inc., Avella.
Condolences may be expressed at www.stefkovichfuneralhome.com.