Donald Frederick Crane

Preferred Name: Don
Nickname/Call Sign: Stork
Date of Birth: April 27, 1931
Headed West: February 22, 2019
Highest Military Grade Held: 0-4 – Major
Biography

After meeting his wife Jerry Sue in 1954 while stationed at Laughlin AFB in Texas, Don was assigned to the 492nd Tactical Fighter Squadron at Chaumont, France, then headed to Lakenheath, England, followed by Waco, Texas. In 1967, while at Williams AFB Arizona, Don was tapped for duty in Vietnam. He returned in August of 1968 and was assigned to Williams AFB.

Don retired from the Air Force in April of 1971 and the family then moved to Rancho Palos Verdes, CA.  In 2008, Don and Jerry moved to Seal Beach, CA, where they enjoyed life with the family.

Headed West

Donald F. Crane “Headed West” February 22, 2019

Leaving behind a legacy of love for his family and country. Our dad, “Grandpa Don” passed away peacefully with his two daughters Janet and Kirsten by his side. Don is also survived by his jokester son-in-laws Butch (Janet ) and Tim ( Kirsten ). He is preceded in death by his beloved son David and his wife Jerry, his lover and best friend.

He continues a fun-filled legacy with six Grandchildren, ten Great-grandchildren and one more on the way! His service in the US Air Force is a great source of pride for all of us. As a fighter pilot, he achieved over 1000 hours of flying time in the F-5. In 1967-68 he served his country in Vietnam and was awarded several medals of distinct honor.

After twenty years of service, he retired a Major in 1971. He followed up his military career at Northrop Corporation traveling the world. An avid golfer, he served as the Los Verdes Men’s Golf Club President and won the club championship three times. In retirement, he enjoyed time with family in Colorado. Grandpa Don had the ability to perfect his many skills to the tee. As the patriarch of our family, he stood strong through difficult times. We are so proud of our dad and grandpa for the man he was. He lived a life full of fun, love, family, and friends. Love you, Daddy!

(source: https://www.greenhillsmortuary.com/obituaries/Donald-Crane-5/#!/Obituary)

Pilot Information

Units Assigned

  • 1954 Laughlin AFB, TX
  • 1957-1961 492nd Tactical Fighter Squadron, Chaumont-Semoutiers AB, France (F-100)
  • 48th Tactical Fighter Wing, Lakenheath AB, England (F-100)
  • 1967 Williams AFB, TX
  • 1957-8/1968 Vietnam
  • 8/1968-4/1971 Williams AFB, TX
  • 4/1971 Retired USAF

Awards & Decorations

Flight Info

F-100
F-5

Flight Hours: 1000+

Military & Civilian Education