Eddie Bracken, 87, a stage and film comedian who spent more than 70 years in show business, died Thursday in Montclair, N.J., of complications after surgery. Born and raised in New York, Mr. Bracken was best known for his roles in The Miracle of Morgan's Creek and Hail the Conquering Hero, both released in 1944 and directed by Preston Sturges.

His start in show business came at age 9, when he appeared in "Kiddie Troupers," a New York rival of the "Our Gang" comedies. After moving to Hollywood in 1940, Mr. Bracken signed with Paramount. His female co-stars included Betty Hutton, Dorothy Lamour and Veronica Lake.

Mr. Bracken moved back to New York in the 1950s and earned a Tony nomination for his co-starring role in Hello, Dolly, with Carol Channing. He also originated the role of Archie in Shinbone Alley with Eartha Kitt. In 1983, he played Mr. Walley in National Lampoon's Vacation with Chevy Chase -- a role for which he was often recognized, his family said.