OBITUARIES

Franklin McCracken 1933 - 2021

Franklin McCracken, 87, passed away Tuesday, January 5, 2021, due to complications of COVID-19.

On May 29, 1954, Frank married Arlene Whitaker in Curwensville, PA. They were a match made in heaven. Together, they raised 3 children, Jim, Vonda, and Brenda. Frank and Arlene designed and built the home they lived in. Their home was a place kids loved to visit, as it was filled with fun, love, laughter and ice cream (with every meal if you’d like!)

Frank worked as a chemical operator for Lubrizol for many years, retiring in 1994. After his retirement, he and Arlene enjoyed taking the family on cruises and traveling the country visiting their family and friends. He was a true family-man, a jack of all trades and a Mr. Fix-it to many. There was no task too big or too small for him. He enjoyed helping others, gardening, traveling, and spending time with his family and friends. He and Arlene enjoyed canning their fresh-grown vegetables, which were a treat to all who dined with them. His kindness and generosity, quick wit, and sense of humor will be missed by all who were blessed to have known him.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his children Brenda Erwin of Ashtabula, Vonda (Keith) Pennell of Hudson, NH; and Jim (Karen) McCracken of Sebring, FL; grandchildren Jason Erwin, Jenna (Ivan) Mendoza, Lindsey Erwin, Amy, Kilee, and Allen Pennell, and Faith (Don) Goetz; great-grandchildren Russell, Thalia, and Reina Mendoza, Frayja Pennell, and Kira, Cody, Kayla and Carla Goetz; sisters Ann DuFour, Liz (Gene) Fowler, and Mary Jane McKinney; many nieces and nephew;, and his very special circle of friends Bill, Doug, Larry, Rita, Joyce, Georgianna, and Annie.

He joins his beloved wife of 66 years, Arlene; brothers, Patrick, James, Newton (Diggie), William, and Donald McCracken; sisters, Cora Miller, Connie Tudor, and Leona Butler; and his parents, Newton and Minnie (Fetzer) McCracken.

Calling hours will be on January 11 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home, Geneva, followed by a service at noon. One life lost is too many. Masks and social distancing required. Frank will be laid to rest at Harpersfield Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to The United Church; 75 S. Broadway; Geneva.

Together again. Give Mom a hug from us. We love you both.