Bill Crane

Bill Crane, 100, of Lafayette, IN, died peacefully on August 10, 2025 in Lafayette, IN.

He was born on September 7, 1924 in Pine Village, IN, to V.O. and Irene (Julian) Crane. When Bill was an infant his parents moved to East Chicago, IN. At the age of 17, he graduated from East Chicago Roosevelt High School, just in time to enlist in the United States Navy. He served honorably for three and half years as a Signalman in the Navy Armed Guard in the Atlantic, Pacific, African and Middle-Eastern theaters.

After his discharge from the Navy, his family had moved back to Warren County, where he met his future wife Barbara Beason. Bill graduated from Indiana University with a B.S. in Education. After teaching school for several years he migrated to Eli Lilly where he worked as a chemist for 27 years. During retirement, Bill was a substitute teacher in the Lafayette City Schools.

Bill enjoyed gardening and was co-author of a book about the 15th Indiana Regiment during the civil war. He and Barb also participated in Audubon bird counts and spent a lot of time watching birds. He also enjoyed watching Indiana University basketball and playing ball with his grand-kids.

On July 14, 2024 Bill was presented the Sagamore of the Wabash award by Senator Ron Alting. He was also awarded a certificate of Special Congressional Recognition for his dedicated service in the United States Navy.

The family would like to thank the Palliative Care Team and all the Franciscan staff for their kindness and support.

Surviving with his wife of 75 years is Bill’s daughter Pamela (Mark) Thompson, of Lafayette; son Gary (Holly) Crane of Indianapolis; grandchildren Christopher (Kate) Thompson of Monticello, IN, and Erin (Joe) Steward of Indianapolis; great-grandchildren Tylar (Tori) Thompson of Normal, IL, Max & Olivia Steward of Indianapolis; and great-great-grandsons Ollie and Lionel Thompson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers Robert, Daniel, Ron, Philip and Timothy.

In Lieu of flowers and plants, donations can be made to the NICHES Land Trust.