Robert (Bob) Michael Crane, 73, of Belleville, IL, born Monday, December 22, 1947, in Dearborn, MI, passed away Tuesday, February 16, 2021, at his residence in Belleville, IL.
Bob easily befriended everyone he met — his positivity, sense of humor and intelligence made it hard for anyone to leave him a stranger. If you were lucky enough to be part of Bob’s family, he put you first and was always there to lend a listening ear, share a good laugh, or help you in any way that he could.
Bob was a Public Service Administrator for the State of Illinois. He was a member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church Belleville IL, and was a US Army Veteran.
He was preceded in death by his:
- Parents: Thomas and Helen, nee Elliot, Crane
- Brothers-in-law:
- Hugh Muson
- Foster White
- Sister: Virgina “Ginny” McElhone
- Sister-in-law, Nyla Crane
Surviving are his:
- Wife: Genia, nee Clay, Crane of Biloxi, MS
- Son: Jonathan Michael Crane of Bronx, NY
- Daughter: Stephanie Clay Crane of Brooklyn, NY
- Brothers:
- Bill (Nylia) Crane of Vancouver, Canada
- Thomas (Peggy) Crane of Grand Blanc, MI
- Sisters:
- Skee (Foster) White of Houston, TX
- Kit Munson of Blacksbury, VA
- Maggie (Charlie) Reynolds of Eagle, ID
Memorials: In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in memory of Bob to the Day Care Council of New York at http://www.dccnyinc.org/donate or by sending a check to Day Care Council of New York, Attn: Andrea Anthony, 1430 Broadway, Suite 404, New York, NY 10018.
8 Comments To "Robert (Bob) Michael Crane"
#1 Comment By Kathy Jordan-Sedgeman On February 26, 2021 @ 11:20 am
Bob was the epitome of a “cool” uncle. I remember many nights of long conversations that covered everything from the war in Vietnam to Buddhism beliefs and always punctuated with laughter. Genia, Jonathan and Stephanie. I am sorry for your sudden loss and hold you all in my prayers.
#2 Comment By Mike McElhone On February 26, 2021 @ 5:13 pm
I loved talking with Uncle Bob. He taught me many things in life such as holding your nose when you drink well water. I remember his dry wit and easy laugh. He was a cool man.
#3 Comment By Michael Chirco On February 26, 2021 @ 5:38 pm
Jon & Stephanie,
I’m very sorry about your loss. Ida and I express our deepest sympathies.
Michael, Ida and Christian Chirco
#4 Comment By Joan Adams On February 28, 2021 @ 10:58 am
I feel very blessed for the chance to know Bob. Fond memories always. Sending prayers and special thoughts to all the family and frineds that will greatly miss Bob in their lives.
#5 Comment By Chris Reynolds On March 3, 2021 @ 8:47 pm
Uncle Bob was someone I heard about and saw sporadically when younger. I had an exchange with him around 20 years ago that put me into a path that ended up with me marrying my wife. Over most of the last 20 years I’ve been able to see Bob generally at least yearly and then over the last 4 years when I moved closer to him I would see him many times a year. It was great to get to know him. He’s always been a fun person to talk to, he had great sense of humor and was interested in others. I really enjoyed our conversations related around our expanded family. Was really good to get some insight and perspective not only about him directly but also about the family. I am very glad to have had a chance to get to know him better as I got older and see him. He’ll be greatly missed and very remembered.
#6 Comment By Renee McGee On March 4, 2021 @ 3:29 pm
I have known Bob for many years; our paths crossed through work. He was always such a nice person to interact with. He was a great example of how we should treat one another. I was lucky enough to reconnect with recently. So sad to hear of his passing. Sorry for your loss.
#7 Comment By Eillen “Ski” White On June 15, 2021 @ 12:02 pm
Robert Michael Crane will always be know to me as “baby brother Bob.” Back in the day, when the older kids would go off to school we would play together throughout the big house and help Grandma (Mom) when required. One time we even packed a bag and ran away. We got as far as the basement door and thought better of it.
As we grew up the bond grew stronger. he was best man at Foster’s and my wedding. After his time in the service he came to live in Texas.
Throughout all the years, he constantly was a caring person to friends, family and people at work. With always a kind spin on any situation. He was very comforting to be with.
It came as a shock that he had died; him being the youngest sibling. Our world is not as gently without him. They probably needed a great baby brother in heaven.
Love Yuh, Bob!
#8 Comment By Robert Burcenski On February 11, 2023 @ 2:41 pm
My condolences Genia. Bob and I were best friends late high school and early college. If you find this please email me.
Thanks
Bob Burcenski