Don Cranfill, 88, of Frankfort, IL, died peacefully with family nearby on December 24, 2023.
Don was born January 10, 1935 in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Rufus and Hazel (Wiseman) Cranfill. He graduated from Fenger High School in 1953 followed by service in the United States Air Force. Don married Lois Bruggeman, his high school sweetheart, in 1957 and they were happily married for over 65 years. Don retired in 1995 as the Vice President and Operating Partner of Korris Products Plastics. He was a 32nd Degree Mason and long-time member of St. Peter’s United Church of Christ in Frankfort. As a lifelong boater, Don and Lois enjoyed boating on Lake Michigan, and especially enjoyed the last 30 years in South Haven, Michigan. He and Lois enjoyed traveling throughout the United States, Europe and spent winters in Bucerias, Mexico. Don was an avid reader and had many interests including airplanes, snowmobiles and motorcycles. He was a private pilot and a past Commodore of the Marquette Yacht Club. Don will be remembered as a kind, caring and gracious family man. He was a loving husband, an amazing role model and father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend who will be missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by: wife Lois; children Cathy (Bruce) Thorne of West Dundee and John Jr. (Julee) Cranfill of St. Charles; his four grandchildren Tarah (Brendan) O’Connell, Brent (Courtney) Thorne, Jamie Cranfill, John Cranfill III; and great-grandchildren Everleigh, Rowan and Dawson.
Don was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Norman, R.C., and M.C.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. For further information, please contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com
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Uncle Don was such a positive and warm family oriented guy. I always loved chatting with him at family gatherings. His knowledge and varied interests always provided for wise and informative discussions.
It was such a pleasure being in Don’s company. Such a kind gentleman with smiling eyes. I am so happy to have known him. God bless him and his family. Sending love, Patty
What an incredible life! And he passed so many wonderful traits and his curiosity to his family. Our hugs to all of you as he will be greatly missed❤️
Our hearts go out to all. May you find peace and comfort in our father. Love and prayers to all.
It has been sad to watch Don fade away to this point. He was such a good man, well loved by his family, and will be sorely missed. I am so sorry.
So sorry to hear about Don. Fond memories of him learning how to do a barrel roll. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
We all appreciated your time here. I was an honor to know you and to have worked for you.
Dear Lois, what a lovely man. I enjoyed each time I saw the two of you over the years. I only know how much you miss your sweetheart. Love, Patty
Dear Lois, what a lovely man. I enjoyed each time I saw the two of you over the years. I only know how much you miss your sweetheart. Love, Patty
Don was one of the nicest fellows I have known. I had a slip next to him for a few years. He would always help you anyway he could.