Clayton W. Craanen

Clayton Craanen, 94, Denmark, passed away Tuesday, December 26, 2023, at a local nursing home while surrounded by his family. He was born October 5, 1929, in Bay Settlement, son of the late Jacob and Mary (Vanlanen) Craanen. He married Ardella Boulanger at St. Louis Church in Dyckesville on May 17, 1950, and she preceded him in death on September 2, 2013. Clayton was jack of all trades; owning and operating a Dairy Farm, worked construction and built houses, and bought and sold dairy cattle.

He enjoyed going to the casino, playing cards, word searches, and he loved his horses. Clayton also liked going to Equity Livestock every Tuesday where he played cards with his friends, and he loved spending time with his family.  

He will be deeply missed by his 5 children and their spouses: Rick (Melinda) Craanen, Wanda Umentum, Brenda (Bob) Havlovitz, Tammy (Randy) Hermans, and Bridget (special friend-Chris Kabara) VandenBush; 12 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren (2 on the way); daughter-in-law, Lois Craanen and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. 

In addition to his parents and wife, Clayton was preceded in death by his 2 daughters, Kathleen Webster and Christine Craanen; his son, Roland Craanen; grandchildren, Jesse Hansen and Julie Schweiner; son-in-law, Cletus Webster; and all his siblings and spouses.  

Family and friends may visit Holy Trinity Catholic Church in New Denmark on Saturday, December 30, 2023, from 8 a.m. until the hour of Mass at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

The family extends a special thank you to Autumn's Promise and Unity Hospice, especially Ashley, for all the wonderful care shown to Clayton and his family.