Donald Kraner

Donald D. Kraner, 76, passed away at 5:19 AM on Tuesday, March 18, 2014 at Kindred Hospital in Lima, Ohio. He was born on October 10, 1937 in Portland, Indiana to Gerald and Verna E.(Thompson) Kraner who preceded him in death. Don married Yong Cha Smith in 2009. He was a life-long resident of the Rockford community. Don was a member of the Air National Guard where he was called up to serve in France for a year. He drove for Atlas van Lines for 37 years in which time he was able to log over 2 million miles without an accident. Outside of trucking, Don enjoyed working on and restoring antique tractors. He was a big fan of Country music. Don is survived by his wife and two sons: Wade and Brad Kraner. Also surviving are five brothers: Keith (Mary) Kraner of Marietta, Ohio; Thomas (Barbara) Kraner of Vinton, Ohio; Homer (Joy) Kraner of Rockford, Ohio; Max (Barbara) Kraner of Van Wert; and Ronnie Kraner of Florida. Two sisters survive: Marilyn Clifton of Ohio City, Ohio and Norma (Tim) Krueckeburg of Decatur, Indiana. Four brothers: Jack Kraner, Billy Kraner, Richard Kraner, Frank Staude and one sister: Betty Swoveland and her husband De Lloyd preceded Don in death. Two brother-in-laws: Harold Clifton and Tim Krueckeburg have also passed. Memorial services will be held at Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home in Rockford on Saturday, March 29, 2014 at 2:00 PM with Pastor Chip Steffy officiating. Family and friends may call prior to the service from 12:00 PM on Saturday. Donations may be made in honor of Don to a charity of the giver's choosing.