Dennis A. Cranley

Dennis August Cranley, 82, of Racine, passed away April 23rd. Dennis was born in Ludington, Michigan on October 23rd, 1934. He was one of eight children born to Michael John (Jack) and Mary (Hillig) Cranley. He was united in marriage with Janet Heidenreich for 50 years and together they raised 7 children. He served in the United States Air Force in Arizona and then returned to Racine where he worked at JI Case Tenneco. He was a dedicated family man and a hard worker. Gardening was his passion and his back yard was always full of color and beauty. He could fix or make almost anything (from cars to curtains). He also enjoyed walks at the ravines at Cliffside Park, camping with family at various State Parks and traveling around the United States. After his retirement, Dennis liked being a grandfather and was very involved in raising his granddaughter, Toni. They had a very special bond and she brought him much joy. He is survived by his wife, Janet, sons: Richard Cranley of Racine, Patrick Cranley of Racine, Michael (Jessica) Cranley of Racine, Thomas (Jessica) Cranley of Madison, Jack (Stephanie) Cranley of Portland, Oregon and daughter, Amy (Will) Smith of Los Angeles, California, many grandchildren, sister Kathleen Amantea of Racine, and brothers: Joe (Judy) Cranley of Racine and Jim (Nancy Drew) Cranley of Bellingham, Washington. He was preceded in death by his son, James Cranley; siblings: Colleen, Michael, Patrick, and Thomas. Dennis August Cranley, husband, father, grandfather and brother will be buried with military honors at 1pm on Monday, May, 1st, at the Wisconsin Southeastern Veterans Union Grove Cemetery. Please join us at the cemetery and for a reception at our home following his internment, 1003 Arthur Avenue, Racine.