Robert "Bob" Crane

Robert "Bob" Crane, 71, of Irondale, will be remembered for his vibrant spirit and deep love for family and community. He passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025, at his home, surrounded by loved ones. 

Born on December 27, 1953, in St. Louis, Bob was a cherished son of the late John Wesley Crane and Dorothy May (Reese) Hayes. He proudly served his country in the United States Army then worked for Chrysler before retiring after 33 years. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Irondale and Lake Port Christian Church in Lake Port, Florida. 

A true adventurer at heart, Bob found joy in pickleball, farming, hunting, and fishing. He had a special affection for his classic 1941 Chevy truck, which he enjoyed restoring. Bob also loved being a snowbird in Florida, traveling to various destinations with his beloved wife, Neila. Bob treasured moments spent with family and was a passionate fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. In his spare time, Bob took pleasure in volunteering to deliver Meals on wheels for several years.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Edna Barton.

Bob is survived by his devoted wife of 36 years, Neila (Merrill) Crane; children, Lori Nixon and husband Shane, Jared Crane and wife Andrea, David Johnson and wife Jennifer, Daniel Johnson and wife Nicole; bonus children, Cory and Matt Landrigan; grandchildren, Carley (Adam) Nickelson, Makayla (Tim) Mork, Jack Crane, Ellie Crane, Daxton and Jase Johnson, Drew and Dirk Johnson; one great-grandson, Jacob Nickolson; siblings, Jim Crane, Donna (Charlie) Crawford, John Crane and Linda (Bert) McGuire; in-laws, Carolyn (Fred) Simily, Larry (Lori) Merrill, Dennis (Sue) Merrill, Mark (Karen) Merrill; and loving cousin, Ruth Ann (Larry) Yount; several nieces, nephews, other family members and two loving Church families also survive.

Visitation will be held at C.Z. Boyer and Son Funeral Home in Desloge, Wednesday, October 29, 2025, from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM. The visitation will resume, Thursday, October 30, 2025, at Irondale First Baptist Church from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM. Steve Voyles and John Kammerman will be officiating. Interment will follow at Big River Cemetery in Irondale, with full military honors. Memorials may be directed in honor of Bob’s memory to the FBC Irondale Community Center. As we remember Bob, let us celebrate his remarkable life and the positive impact he had on everyone around him. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will forever remain in our hearts.