Robert V. Crane

Robert "Bob" V. Crane went home to be with his Heavenly Father on Veterans Day, November 11, 2016 at St. Leonard Franciscan Living Community in Centerville, Ohio, surrounded by family and friends.

Bob was born in May of 1926 to John and Margaret Galligan Crane in Waterbury, CT. One of his earliest achievements of which he was most proud was becoming an Eagle Scout. At the age of 18, Bob enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps where he served for three years. In 1945 he reenlisted in the Army and participated in the Army of Occupation in Italy after the end of World War II. Bob served as a belly gunner on a B-17 Flying Fortress and was returning to the United States to train as a tail gunner on the B-29 Super Fortress with the expectation of being sent to the South Pacific just before the end of the war. Bob was honorably discharged in December of 1946. Serving as a member of the armed forces was a very prominent part of Bob's life story and it stayed with him as one of the fondest and longest lasting memories. It is fitting that he passed from this life on the day that honors those who served our country.

Bob met and married the love of his life, Joan Byrnes in 1952 and together they raised their family. Bob is survived by his six children; John and wife Corrine, Rod and wife Regina, Meg and husband Bart, Steve and wife Lisa, Mark and wife Linda and Michael and wife Jody, 15 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

Bob spent 44 years at The NCR Corporation. His career long commitment was a sign of his character that served him well throughout all endeavors of his life.

He will join his beloved wife Joan, in his internment at Arlington National Cemetery.

There will be a memorial mass at 11:00 am on Monday, November 14, 2016 at the chapel at St. Leonard's Franciscan Living Community, 8100 Clyo Road, Centerville, OH. The family will receive guests prior to the mass.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be sent to Hospice of Dayton.