Donald Gene Crayne passed away on September 13, 2021 at the age of 83, in

Pensacola, FL. Despite his battle with multiple medical issues he never complained, and conveyed his strength to the very end.

He was an only child born and raised in Ridgway, IL. He graduated from Ridgway High School, where he played varsity basketball, which was the beginning of his lifelong love of sports. Many times you'd catch him watching one sport on television, listening to one on the radio and another in an earpiece. He was even able to utilize this passion in the military by refereeing basketball, umpiring & coaching baseball. He received a medal for his contribution to the Pan American Games in Guam, and used sporting activities in his training lessons to motivate his men.

Don was a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, he retired in 1980 in Homestead, FL, after serving his country for over twenty-three years.

His military career enabled him to travel the world, where he met his wife of 62 years, Rose, while stationed in Scotland.  He was the father to five daughters, and took them on many family vacations to see the National Parks; Beaches; Theme Parks and visits to his humble hometown of Ridgway, still the "Popcorn Capitol of the World." He introduced his grandsons to sports as well and was a positive role model.

He loved his Pepsi, Oreo Cookies, and Butter Pecan Ice Cream. Near the end when asked what was most important to him, he said "My Family and Hallmark."

He was very much loved and will be truly missed.

Don is survived by his wife, Rose; five daughters, Donna Robinson (Marty), Darla Mangels (Martin), Lesa Crayne (Bob Dolan), Sherry Grayson (Ed), and Angela Stull (Randy); six grandchildren, Ryan Stanley (Alina), Jacob Stanley, Michelle Burton (Brett), Amanda Williams (Dane), Taylor Stull and Patrick Dolan; and eight great grandchildren, Jennifer, Victoria, Jaxson, Kolten, Jace, Noel, Tyler, and Zachary; and his precious dog Bella.