Leo Patrick Craner's Obituary
Do not grieve for me. Be happy that after 93 years, I have fought the fight, run the race and reached the finished line! I will be waiting for all of you.This is a brief glimpse at the amazing life and legacy of Leo P. Craner, husband, father, grandfather, friend, brother and life of the party.Leo was born and raised in Phoenixville PA. Upon graduating from high school, Leo enlisted in the Navy after turning 18 in 1942. He spent 3 years as a medic in the South Pacific on the USS Clay in WW II. His thirst to further his education lead him to receive a Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy. While pursuing his degree, he was called back to service in the Korean War. After returning to his studies, Leo met Lorraine on Friday the 13th at a Valentine’s dance. They were married 7 months later and have been married for over 64 years. Leo was a hospital and community pharmacist and owned his own Pharmacy. He and Lorraine moved to Fort Myers in 1977. Leo loved to golf and has been known to visit the 19th hole to critique his game. Leo traveled the world. He loved to wear a green hat and tie on St. Patrick’s Day and entertain crowds with his Irish stories, including the accent. He has held the office of Grand Knight with the Knights of Columbus and was very active in his church and community. Leo never missed events that involved his family. He loved to ice skate on the local creek with his children and even rescued a child who fell through the ice. He was always there for anyone and everyone.Leo was preceded in death by his 11 siblings. He is survived by his wife Lorraine, son Steven (Wanda), daughters Jeanne (Craig McLaughlin) and Lori (Michael) Herbert. His grandchildren are Joshua Cootware, TC & Robbie Herbert and Tesia and Michaela Craner.A viewing will be held on Wednesday, January 31, 2018 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm inside the Chapel at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907, (239) 936-0555. A Funeral Mass for Leo will be celebrated at 10:00 am the following day, Thursday, February 1, 2018 at St. Cecelia’s Catholic Church, 5632 Sunrise Drive, Fort Myers, Florida, 33919, (239) 936-3635. Immediately following conclusion of Mass, friends and family will travel to Memorial Gardens Cemetery where Leo will receive Military Honors from the Harney Point Veterans of Foreign Wars Post, No. 8463 prior to entombment at the Mausoleum located inside the Garden of Serenity.To share a story or picture, leave a tribute or to offer condolences to the family at this difficult time please visit Leo’s memorial webpage at www.fortmyersmemorial.com and sign his guestbook.https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/QQ67HHZ4X4BTLH7Q
What’s your fondest memory of Leo?
What’s a lesson you learned from Leo?
Share a story where Leo's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Leo you’ll never forget.
How did Leo make you smile?