Alfred Donald

Cranon

. Donald "Butch" Cranon, a loving son, brother, and proud father of three children, of Toledo, Ohio, peacefully transitioned in his home on September 10, 2026.

He was born in Toledo, Ohio, on December 23, 1952, to Alfred D. Cranon (deceased) and Bonnie Jean Cranon. Butch was educated at Saint Francis de Sales high school, University of Detroit Mercy, The University of Toledo, and the Local 8 Electrical Apprenticeship. He enjoyed subjects such as music, science, math, and Russian. He then went on to work at IBM, Kodak, Scott High School, and ultimately became a commercial electrician with IBEW local 8 and a licensed estimator, working hard to help support his family. Colleagues would describe him as a disciplined, perfectionist, detailed-oriented leader and educator.

Known to be a talented musician, Butch's love for music began at a young age. After building his first guitar he would continue to develop his musical talents through hours of practice and many performances. He played with multiple bands throughout his life. All his performances were known to be a "big production" of showmanship and joy whether it was a family gathering or booked event.

A loving son to Bonnie Jean Cranon and a thoughtful brother to Kimberly A. Collins-Stewart (Christopher). Butch was a compassionate and supportive presence in their lives. He often enjoyed planning family gatherings with them and cherished bringing their immediate and extended family together for various family reunions, holidays, birthdays, and summer picnics.

Butch was a devoted and loving father to Damien Sean Cranon, Danielle Starr Cranon, and Alfred Dominic Cranon that he shared with his former wife Linda M. Wilson. His children dearly miss him and the life lessons he imparted to them. From building model engines, cars, and airplanes with his boys, coaching Damien in football to attending dance recitals for Starr; he was especially proud of her for completing college in 2024. Butch was always there for his children, instilling knowledge and confidence. He also enjoyed watching his favorite football teams, the Pittsburgh Steelers and The Ohio State Buckeyes, and was known to collect team memorabilia. Even in adulthood, Butch continued to teach his children life lessons, especially in getting Chip out of sticky situations – always on call, never to judge, and finding meaning in life's curveballs. His love for teaching and mentoring fell outside of his children to others as well, including other family members, friends, and friends of his children.

Butch was also known as "Papa" to Alexandria Evonne Lloyd and Davon Lamar Lloyd Jr. In the time he spent with his grandchildren he made them feel important and loved. He was known for making every baseball game, music concert, and milestone event he attended special. He was often spotted with his camera ready to capture these precious moments, making sure he didn't miss anything. Through his constant presence, no one could ever question whether he was a proud grandfather. Everything about Butch – his calm disposition, love for music, food, sports, sweet treats, and movies – has shaped his grandchildren in beautiful ways. By sharing his life with his grandchildren, he taught each of them how to love deeply and how to be present for people that mean the most to them.

He took great pride in being a parent, grandparent, and loving companion, especially to Gracye Sturdivant. Butch and Gracye were inseparable. They did everything together and enjoyed worshiping, traveling, blending/attending family functions, and hosting many family events. Their love is everlasting.

Butch was preceded in death by his father Alfred D. Cranon.

He is survived by his mother Bonnie Jean Cranon, sister Kimberly A. Collins-Stewart (Christopher), children Damien Sean Cranon, Danielle Starr Cranon, and Alfred Dominic Cranon, and grandchildren Alexandria Evonne Lloyd and DaVon Lamar Lloyd, Jr.

Butch was also close to a host of special nieces and nephews that he treated and loved as his own children. He will be remembered and appreciated by many, especially by his family, friends, and the Braden United Methodist Church community. Butch leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication.