Minnie Marie McCracken

Minnie Marie (Lewis) McCracken, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, passed away peacefully at her home in Montrose, Colorado, on Thursday, July 17, 2025. She was 85 years of age.

Minnie was born at home. The country doctor laid her aside as stillborn, but Grandma Minnie took her into the other room to pray—and God gave her life. Grandma Minnie was granted the naming rights. Minnie grew up with fond memories of her life alongside her parents, seven sisters, and the uncle and aunt who were raised with them.

On June 14, 1958, she married the love of her life, Alfred Cecil McCracken. Together, they built a life centered on love and faith, diligently raising four sons and two daughters. Minnie was a devoted mother to Ted, Roger, Bruce, and Alan, and later in life welcomed Jeanette and Amber to fill their old age with youth and vitality.

Her home was a haven of warmth, much like the quilts she quietly gifted over the years—famous for Sunday young kids afternoon gatherings, her delicious chicken noodles, and unforgettable cinnamon rolls. She cherished family outings, cooking, washing dishes, and creating lasting memories through hikes and picnics in Robideaux Canyon.

Minnie was baptized into The General Assembly and Church of the Firstborn on September 10, 1956, in the Dolores River, where she grew into a woman of immense faith.

She was blessed with wonderful in-laws, 43 grandchildren, and 48 great-grandchildren who filled her life with joy, laughter, and love.

Minnie is survived by her six children: Ted of Olathe, CO; Roger and his wife Cendie of Delta, CO; Bruce and his wife Cheryl of Stroud, OK; Alan and his wife JoAnn of Olathe, CO; Jeanette and her husband LeRoy of Bonanza, OR; and Amber of Olathe, CO.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Alfred McCracken; daughter-in-law Tina McCracken; grandsons Josiah Deyo McCracken and John William BoHall; and granddaughter Nancey Darlene McManus.