Tom Crane

A graveside service for Tom Crane will be held at 1:30 PM, Monday, June 23, 2025, at Dickens Cemetery in Dickens. Military rites will be conducted by Glen Pedersen Post 1 American Legion. Memorial contributions may be directed to Dickens Cemetery or Glen Pedersen Post 1 American Legion at 15 E 21st St., Spencer, IA 51301.

Thomas Herbert Crane, son of Harry and Rebecca (Henderson) Crane, was born December 31, 1930, in Dickens, Iowa. He graduated from Gillett Grove High School with the Class of 1948. Tom then worked as an auto mechanic at Flax Motors in Dickens before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. He served his country from 1952 to 1954 as a tank mechanic.

Tom was united in marriage with Lois Schwaller October 28, 1957, at the St. Joseph church rectory in Milford. The couple made their home and raised their family in Milford.

Tom was a skilled carpenter, involved in the construction of churches, hospitals and malls. He built the home where he and his wife raised their children. He was very meticulous in everything he did. Tom enjoyed gardening and growing flowers in particular. He created beautiful Christmas light displays for many years. Tom liked coffee time, watching auto racing and boxing, reading the newspapers, camping and traveling. He was a cat lover. Tom was a loyal and devoted family man and would do anything for them. He was thoughtful and courteous, a true gentleman. He was a proud member of Mankato Local 464 Carpenters Union and Dickens American Legion Post 194.

Tom passed away June 14, 2025, at his home in Milford at the age of 94. Left to cherish his memory are his children Keith (Tina) Crane of Milton, WI, Sue Shoup of Le Mars, IA, Eileen (Todd) Thorn of Spirit Lake, IA, and Tom (Trina Rudy) of Vancouver, WA; grandchildren Kaleb and Chloe Crane, and Linden (Amanda) Shoup; and great grandchildren Des and Maise Shoup. Tom was preceded in death by his parents Harry and Rebecca Crane, wife of 63 years, Lois Crane, son-in-law John Shoup, and siblings Bill Crane, Lucille Hamrick, Marian Carey, and Carl Crane.