Howard H. Crane

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Howard H. Crane, 83, of Walton, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2021 at home in Walton, surrounded by family.

He was born on July 31, 1937 in West Milford, N.J., the son of Andrew and Minnie (Utter) Crane. He married Gail Winters on Nov. 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 New Jersey. 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 predeceased by his parents and a brother, Seely Crane.

A private memorial service will take place at the convenience of the family on March 6 in Walton. Another service will be held on a date to be announced in Oak Ridge, N.J.

To leave a condolence for the family, visit www.bennettfh.com.

Arrangements are by the Kenneth L. Bennett Funeral Home, Franklin.