Obituary of Donald J. Crane

Donald Joseph Crane, 88, of Clinton, NY, passed away peacefully with his

family by his side after a long battle with dementia.

 

He was born on July 22, 1936, in Utica, NY, to Edwin and Mary (Corr)

Crane. Don attended St. Francis de Sales School and graduated from New

Hartford High School in 1954.

 

Don then began his career at Niagara Mohawk before being drafted into

the U.S. Army, and after completing his service, he returned to the

company, where he worked for 39 years before retiring.

 

On August 24, 1963, he married Janet (Cote) of Clinton, and together

they made Clinton their  home. They raised their children there and

shared many meaningful years filled with camping trips, family

vacations, cheering for the New York Yankees and Syracuse basketball,

and creating laughter and memories along the way.  Don and Janet were

married for 36 years until her passing in 1999.

 

In later years, Don was fortunate to meet Judith Fisher, who became his

fiancée. Together, they shared many years laughing, traveling, attending

shows, and spending time in Old Forge with the extended Fisher family.

 

His family remembers and loved him for his steady presence, sense of

humor, and dedication to those he loved.

 

Don was a faithful Catholic and attended church regularly, most recently

attending St. Mary's Church in Clinton. He was also a proud member of

the American Legion Post 1376 in New Hartford.

 

Don is survived by his children, Paul Crane (Suzanne McLean-Halberstadt)

of Webster, NY, and Colleen Iles (Eric Blakely) of Deansboro, NY.   He

especially cherished his grandchildren, K. Christopher Crane Iles and

Erin Danielle Iles, who brought him endless joy. He rarely missed a

game, concert, or childhood event—often followed by a stop for ice cream.

 

He also leaves behind his late wife Janet’s siblings and their families,

with whom he remained close: Gaeton and Georgine Dragone (children:

Michael, Michele, and Thomas) of Jacksonville, FL; Tom and Barbara

Thurston (daughter: Nicole) of Vernon Center, NY; and John and Lynne

Cote (daughter: Alison) of Guilford, CT. He was predeceased by his

niece, Danielle Thurston.

 

Don is also survived by many cousins from the Crane and Corr families.

 

A private celebration of  life will be held at the convenience of the

family. There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations

may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of New Hartford in Don’s

memory. 

 

The family would like to thank Carol and Brittany for the care and

kindness they gave to our father. Your compassion meant a great deal to

us. Thank you as well to the hospice nurses who supported his care in

his final days.