Ronald R. Cravener

1942 - 2022

Ronald Ray Cravener, 80, of Bellefonte, Pa., passed away Saturday, Dec. 31, 2022, at Mount Nittany Medical Center in State College, Pa. Born April 24, 1942, in Rural Valley, Pa., he was the son of the late Edward F. and Imogene (Cribbs) Cravener. On Jan. 26, 1962, he married his beloved wife, Verna (Wilmot) Cravener, who survives at home after sharing 60 years of marriage together. Ron was a graduate of Shannock Valley High School. He proudly served his country in the Navy, during the Vietnam War, from January 1962 until he was honorably discharged in December 1967. For his time in the service, he was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary and the Vietnam Service Medal with a Bronze Star. Ron continued his service in the Reserve, retiring as a 20-year veteran. After being discharged from active duty in the Navy, he worked as a pipefitter for Peoples Gas for 29 years until his retirement in 1996. He then took a position as a boiler technician for Mount Nittany Medical Center. In addition to his wife, Verna, he is survived by their three children, Terri Cravener (Brian King), of Warriors Mark, Steven Cravener (Jennifer H.), of Bedford, and Charles Cravener, of Bellefonte; and four grandchildren, Kamaria Cravener and Cassandra Rhoades, both of State College, Rachael Rhoades, of Warriors Mark, and Joshua Cravener, of Bedford. Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his two sisters, Betty Lou Kimpel and Donna Heckart. Ron was the last of his generation. Ron was a member of New Hope United Methodist Church in Bellefonte. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 867 in Pleasant Gap. During his younger years, he enjoyed deer hunting and demolition derbies. He also enjoyed reading and watching wartime and Western movies. There will be a public viewing held from 10 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023, at New Hope United Methodist Church, 1089 E. College Ave., Bellefonte. Funeral services will begin at noon, with Pastor Bob Dornan officiating. Full military honors will be carried out at the church and begin immediately after the conclusion of the funeral service. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are under the direction of WETZLER FUNERAL SERVICE INC. in Bellefonte. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Ron to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516, or by going to support.woundedwarriorproject.org. online condolences may be made to the family at www.wetzlerfuneralhome.com.