Obituary of J. Roland Craner

J. Roland Craner, 96, of Baldwinsville passed away peacefully Saturday, August 30, 2014, at Syracuse Home at McHarrie Place. He was born in Auburn and lived in the Syracuse area all of his life. Roland and his Father ran Craner's Pharmacy on the south side of Syracuse for many years. Roland received his Bachelors Degree from the University of Alabama in 1940 and entered the US Army Air Corps serving in WWII. He had a long career in Onondaga County government, holding both elected and appointed positions, and retired in 1984 as Commissioner of Long Term Care at Van Duyn Home and Hospital after many years in health administration. Roland was predeceased by his wife of 56 years, Louise C. Craner in 1998. He is survived by his children and their spouses, James R. and Marlene Craner of Troy, Julia C. Craner Conrose and husband Wiliam of Camillus, Maureen L. Craner of Syracuse, Marcia R. Craner-Wolkoff and husband Albert of Vestal and Audrey and John Gibbs of Baldwinsville; 5 grandchildren, Elise N. Stopper, Bryan J. Craner, Alexandra C. Wolkoff, John S. Gibbs III, Ellyn L. Gibbs and several step-grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren, Michael, Alexander and Jacob; two sisters, Betty Buckles of Hilton Head, SC and Helen Twadell of Flemington, NJ; several nieces and nephews, including Patricia A. Rogers who was a great comfort. The family wishes to recognize his many devoted care givers at Syracuse Home. Services: 10:00am Thursday, September 4, 2014, at St. Mary's Church, 47 Syracuse St., Baldwinsville. Private burial in St. Bernards Cemetery, Waterville. Calling hours are 4:30-6:30pm Wednesday at the Falardeau Funeral Home, 93 Downer St., Baldwinsville, NY 13027. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to McHarrie Life Foundation, 7740 Meigs Rd., Baldwinsville, NY 13027, or a charity of one's choice.