CHRISTOPHER CRANE

CRANE--Christopher M. "Chris" Crane, a prominent leader of the nation's energy industry and an early climate advocate, passed away on April 13, 2024 in Chicago, Ill. after a short illness. He is survived by his wife Jillian; three children, Cassandra Crane, Darby Garrity, and Zachary Crane; and his sister Mary Willoughby. Chris was born in Franklin, New Hampshire, to Mary and James Crane. He found his calling as a "nuke" early, starting his career at nuclear plants in Arizona, Texas and Tennessee. In 1998, he joined Unicom Corporation, Exelon's predecessor, going on to be Exelon's chief nuclear officer and later president of Exelon Generation. He became widely recognized as a titan of the nuclear power industry and a fierce advocate for the safe, reliable operation of carbon-free nuclear plants. In 2012, Chris became president and CEO of Exelon, which became the nation's leading competitive energy provider, largest nuclear generating fleet and largest utility holding company. Chris' operational expertise was matched by his deep commitment to philanthropy, equity, and job development for underserved populations. In 2017, he signed on as a champion of the United Nations' inaugural HeForShe campaign, committing to invest in STEM programs for young women. He was immensely proud of the Exelon Foundation STEM Leadership Academy, personally sharing the news with students that they would receive full scholarships to college. Chris retired as Exelon's CEO in December 2022. In his parting message, he shared with employees that he believed the most important work they performed was making a very real difference in people's lives. Chris spent his time in retirement with family, traveling and exploring his passion for boating.