James A. "J.C." Cramer

James A. Cramer, 52, of Billings, passed away on Dec. 28, 2002, at his home, after an extended illness.

Jim was born in Helena on March 27, 1950, to R.F. and Peaches Cramer. He attended Lincoln Elementary School, Helena Junior High and Helena Senior High prior to joining the U.S. Marines on May 5, 1967. After boot camp, Jim was trained at Twentynine Palms, Calif., before going to Vietnam. He served three tours in Vietnam, in 1968, 1969 and 1970. After returning to the States, Jim was stationed at both Treasure Island Calif., and Twentynine Palms.

Following his retirement from the Marines, Jim moved back to Helena and married Terry Cottingham in December 1978. In January 1979, they moved to Santa Rosa, and then to Petaluma, Calif. In 1982, Jim and Terry moved back to Montana and settled in Billings. Jim worked various jobs in Billings, including TV and VCR repairs, bartending, and working as a forklift mechanic.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include Terry Cramer and their three children, James "Gabriel," Tamara and Christopher Cramer, all of Billings; a grandson, Colin Cramer of Billings; a sister, Marion Hanson and her two sons, Blake and Blair Hanson, all of Seattle.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 6, at the Smith Downtown Chapel. Military honors and interment will follow at Mountview Cemetery. No public visitations are scheduled. Smith Downtown Chapel is in charge of arrangements.