Michael LeRoy Craner, age 77, went to his eternal rest on Sunday, August 01, 2021. Born February 16, 1944 in Ely, Nevada, he was the son of the late Martin LeRoy Craner and Dorothy Marie Craner. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
Mike was a US Navy and Army National Guard veteran, serving his country honorably 17 years, discharged for health reasons. He worked in the Aerospace Industry 56 years, retiring at age 75.
Through the years, Mike had many hobbies. As a young man, he enjoyed surfing, skating, and bowling. He loved camping and was a former member of the Mountain Men of the Wasatch, where he received awards for his skills with black powder rifles. He did a lot of metal detecting and discovered a lot of historic relics. He spent many hours building remote control planes and flying them, and building and flying drones. He was a member of the Yuma Aeromodelers Club. He also competed in remote control car competitions.
Michael and his wife, Juanita Halsey Craner recently celebrated 52 years of marriage. Mike and Juanita were the parents of four children, Michael (Susanne) of San Tan Valley, AZ, Connie Craner-Brown (Kevin) of Stockton, MO, Jared (Arline) of Las Vegas, NV, and Debi Craner-Bumgarner (Larry) of Phoenix, AZ. Mike and Juanita were blessed with 8 precious grandchildren, Kevin Craner, Selena Craner, Shea Craner, Caitlin Craner of San Tan Valley, AZ, Darrel Brown and Dallas Brown of Stockton, MO, Kason Spencer of Portland, OR, Vida Lily of Phoenix, AZ, and two special bonus grandchildren, Megan Capers of Portland, OR and Jordan Bumgarner of Phoenix, AZ.
In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by his sister, Sherry Appleby-Klein, brother-in-law, Roger Appleby, and brother, Brent Craner. Those left to cherish Mike’s memory include a brother, Greg (Pam), a sister-in-law, Pam Craner, a brother, David and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and two special Aunts, Jackie Hill and Sandi Kimbrell.
In keeping with his wishes, Mike will be cremated. A memorial service will be held with family and relatives at 3:00 P.M. at Funeraria Del Angel at 795 W. 28th Street Yuma, AZ.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared below for the Craner family.