Ronald Crane

Ronald "Rink" Crane, a beloved member of his community and devoted family man, passed away on September 25, 2024 at the Davis Hospice Center in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He was born on May 9, 1936, in Ipswich, South Dakota, and lived a life marked by service, dedication, and joyful connections with those he loved.

Ron served in the United States Navy for 20 years, a career that allowed him to travel extensively across the nation, residing in states such as South Dakota, Montana, New York, Boston, Rhode Island, Michigan, and Wyoming. Following his retirement from the Navy, he continued to serve the community by working for the State of Wyoming in Cheyenne, where he dedicated an additional ten years before retiring once more.

Known for his cheerful disposition, Ron was a man who brought joy to family gatherings and a rich sense of humor that shone brightly in every encounter. He loved competing in pool and horseshoe tournaments, sharing smiles, laughter, and corny jokes with friends and family alike. Music held a special place in his heart, evident by the hundreds of cassette tapes and albums he cherished, filling his daily life with melodies. He also enjoyed watching car races on television and cheering during NFL games, passions that reflected his vibrant personality.

Ron was deeply proud of his children and their accomplishments, frequently relishing moments spent together or engaging in heartfelt phone conversations. He greatly valued his living siblings, enjoying significant time on the phone with them as well, fostering a strong and loving familial bond.

He leaves behind a loving family, including his sister Carol Hagel, brothers Gary (Dorothy) Crane and Allen (Doris) Crane, and his children: daughters Loretta (Carey) Spear of Billings, Montana, and Connie Crane of Cheyenne, Wyoming, as well as sons Orville (Brenda) Crane of Cheyenne, Wyoming, and Steven Crane of Cheyenne, Wyoming. His legacy continues through his granddaughters Ashley Crane of Arizona, Amanda (Brad) Billinger of Colorado, Cassie Pennock of Cheyenne, Wyoming, and grandson Paul (Serena) Ray of California, along with great-grandchildren Topanga and Teagan Pennock of Cheyenne, Wyoming, and Haley Ray of California. A special family member, Jackie Higgenbotham of Lander, Wyoming, also holds a cherished place in his heart.

Ronald Crane was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 56 years, Ella Semmler, who he lost in 2014, along with his parents Orville and Erma Crane, brothers Charles and Stanley Crane, and sister Beth Geditz.

Ron will be remembered not only for his service to his country and community but for the love and kindness he bestowed upon his family and friends. His spirit lives on through the many lives he touched and the cherished memories that will be forever held in the hearts of those who knew him.