He was born on July 31, 1937 in West Milford, NJ, the son of Andrew and Minnie (Utter) Crane. He married Gail Winters on November 18, 1961.
Affectionately known as “Pop,” Howard loved to be creative and artistic. He painted beautiful pictures and loved to do cartoons from continental packs on cars in the 50s to saw blades in the recent times.
He loved to work and assist in building and repair projects of people he cared deeply about. He loved his John Deere tractor and insisted he was plowing in our recent snowstorms. He enjoyed making people laugh with his jokes (especially on Grandma) and great storytelling. He loved many people and had many “adopted” children that will miss him very much. Family and friends were “his life.”
Howard attained the 32nd degree in the Masonic Order and was a 47 year member of Harmony Lodge #8 F&AM in northern NJ. He was also a 40 year member of the Scottish Rite.
Howard is survived by his wife of 59 years, Gail Crane; his son, Howard H. Crane, Jr.; his daughter, Jesslyn Crane Forsyth; his grandchildren, Howard Crane 3rd, Rebekah Crane Hayward, Jesse Crane, Cory Forsyth, Taralyn Forsyth; his great grandchildren, Maggie Hayward, Raegan Hayward, and James Crane; his extended family, Patricia & Fred Winters; dearest friends, Pat & Jim Gardepe, Lee Davenport, and Teddy Smith.
He was predeased by his parents; and a brother, Seely Crane.
A private memorial service will take place at the convenience of the family on March 6th in Walton. Another service will be held on a date to be announced in Oak Ridge, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, donations are asked to be made to the Trout Creek Volunteer Fire Department, 8695 County Hwy 27, Trout Creek, NY 13847.
To leave a condolence for the family, please visit www.bennettfh.com.
Arrangements are by the Kenneth L. Bennett Funeral Home, Franklin.
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