Robert Blackdurn Crane, 88 passed away at Haven Hospice 26 May 2012 in Gainesville, Florida. Captain Crane was born in Grosse Point, Michigan 11 January 1924. He and his wife Constance (Connie) resided in The Village of Gainesville for the last several years. Formerly they lived in Cedar Key following his retirement from National Cargo Bureau in Tampa, Florida. Captain Crane and Constance Barber Foster, an artist, were married in New York City in 1974. Captain Crane served in the United States Navy 8 years ending with the Korean War and mustering out with the rank of Lieutenant. He then served in the United States Merchant Marine and retired with the ranks of Master Mariner and Captain. During his voyages, he often took his wife, traveling far and wide; and on some trips, they even took along their dog Bowser. Captain Crane, while in Cedar Key was active in civic affairs and among other environmental interests he founded Florida`s Nature Coast Conservancy, a non-profit land trust. Captain Crane is survived by his wife Constance, sons, Michael, Kevin and Sean and a step daughter, Meg. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Carly, Cassie and Stefan. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions should be made to Florida`s Nature Coast Conservancy, P.O. Box 401, Cedar Key, FL 32625 and Haven Hospice of Gainesville. There will be a memorial service at 1:00 PM, Friday, 1 June 2012 in The Village Chapel, 8000 NW 27th Boulevard. Arrangements are being handled by Forest Meadows Funeral Homes of Gainesville, Florida. |