Brian D. Crane, 71, of Charles City, died Sunday afternoon, July 17, 2011, at his home after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
A celebration of Brian’s life will be at a later date. Per Brian’s request his body was donated to the University of Iowa Hospital for medical research in hopes for a cure for cancer.
Brian Donley Crane was born March 30, 1940, in Glendale, California, the son of Delbert V. and Georgia Mae (Sage) Crane. He graduated from Lake Preston High School in 1958 and attended one year at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, S.D. On July 11, 1959, he was united in marriage to Patricia Rogholt.
Brian was a true entrepreneur who enjoyed every aspect of his business life. Brian and Pat established Growth Properties 20 years ago and started their property portfolio. Prior to that Brian spent many years in the printing business dating back to the late 1960’s in Rapid City, S.D., and eventually moving to Mason City, IA.
Brian believed in giving back to his communities and served on many boards. Some of which included: NIVC of Mason City, the Mason City YMCA, the original Hospice Board of Finances, KUNI Radio (Cedar Falls), Co-Chair of the Republican Party of Floyd County. He became a Mason and a Shriner by age 23.
Brian and Patricia were most proud of the scholarship fund they created for their Alma-Mater in Lake Preston, S.D. They established the LPHS Higher Education Foundation many years ago. Also, Brian was recognized for his involvement with the Charles City Excellence in Education Fund.
Brian’s interests included: playing duplicate bridge (achieving Life Master in 1992), gardening, fishing, cooking, hosting dinner parties for family and friends, music (especially jazz).
Brian had an exceptional sense of humor and memory. Storytelling and jokes were available in any circumstance. He would put a smile on your face with his stories.
Brian loved spending time with his daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren any chance he had and loved having family and friends around.
Living family members include his wife, Patricia Crane of Charles City; three daughters,
Cheri (Dan) Jaacks of Toddeville, Melanie Crane of Charles City and Michelle Crane of Columbia, Mo; a sister Linda Crane of Simi-Valley, Calif.; five grandchildren, Jacob Jaacks, Gram (Jennifer) Short, Brynn Short, Jennifer (Joel) Sommerfield-Sager and Shelby Lyn Crane; 4 great grandchildren; Oliver, Adrian, Finneas and Addison; two special aunts “the Merdynes” and many cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
The Hauser Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hauserfh.com.
