Claude C. Crane

Claude C. Crane, 89, of Newman passed away at 7:40 a.m. on Sunday, May 16. 2021 at his home.

Claude was born July 1, 1931 to Merle and Grace (Beaver) Crane at their home south of Broadlands

Claude lived at the family home south of Broadlands until 1959, when he moved with his 1st wife Ann (Sanders) to their new farm south of homer. There, they adopted a newborn son, John, in 1968. Always in pursuit of more acreage, they moved to a farm west of Hume in 1971. Claude married Martha (Fernandes) in 1976 and continued living on the farm west of Hume until he retired in 2013. They then moved to their home in Newman, where they enjoyed their remaining years.

He is survived by three children, Ken (Amie) Fernandes of Tuscola, Marsha Fernandes of Lincoln, and John (Tammy) Crane of Bloomington, IN; 6 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and two newest family members Brenda Keys and Leyna of Newman.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Martha Crane, and sister Esther (DeWitt).

Claudes passion (and career) was farming. He was a proud life member of both the Masonic Lodge and Scottish Rite. He enjoyed being with his family, particularly his grandchildren. His most fond memories are of the tractor drive to Washington DC, his farm tour of the Scandinavian countries, and trips to Hawaii with Martha. His favorite thing was having meals with the family. 

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m.  on Thursday, May 20, 2021 at the Joines Funeral Home (Newman) with Mr. Jim Allen officiating.  Burial will follow at the GAR cemetery in Homer, IL.  A visitation will be held an hour prior to the funeral service. Masks are optional. Dinner will be at the Newman American Legion following services. All are invited.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Newman American Legion or the Wesley Chapel Church.

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