South Woodstock, Vermont

Russell W. Crane, 89, died Thursday November 8, 2018 at his home in South Woodstock, Vermont.

He was born January 28, 1929 in Montague, MA the son of Earl A. and Fidelia(Townsend) Crane.

Russell's family moved to the family farm, Orchard Hill Farm in South Woodstock where he was very active with 4H activities throughout his youth. In high school, Russell became involved with Future Farmers of America. Russell graduated from Woodstock Union High School in 1948. He began to partner with his uncle in the running of Orchard Hill, building a herd of registered jerseys and slowly expanding the sugaring operation.

Russell entered the US Army in January 1955 and served as a member of the Military Police at Fort Hood and Killeen Base, Texas. He was honorably discharged in January 1957.

He married Lila Whitney on September 10, 1955, Lila pre deceased him October 4, 1999. Russell and Lila returned to South Woodstock in 1957 to raise a family and returned to work on the family farm. Following his uncle's stroke in 1967, Russell, together with his very young son Roger, assumed management of Orchard Hill. Russell and Lila retired from Dairy Farming in 1995 but continued as an active part of the sugaring for many more years.

Russell was an active member of the Randolph Tractor Club and rebuilt many antique Farm All Tractors himself. He also enjoyed many years as a sugar maker and was a long time member of the Vermont Sugar Makers Association.

Russell is survived by his sister, Ava Rodgers, of South Carolina, son Roger W. Crane (Nina Klink), his daughter Sheryl C. Miller (Michael), his 5 grandsons; Joshua W. Crane (Alicia), Jeremy W. Crane (Abby), Jacob W. Crane (Cassie), Bradley Barnwell, and Daniel Barnwell, (both of Cincinnati, OH), 6 great grandchildren; Morgan, Gabrielle Addison, Tanner, Ella Rita, and Jace.  Russell is also mourned by his best friends, dogs Jackie and Ceilidh, and cat, Bibby.

A memorial gathering will be held at the South Woodstock Fire Station on Sunday November 18 ^th that will begin at 1:00pm and be followed be a time to share stories. Burial is being held privately on the family farm.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the American Legion Ora E. Paul Post #24 of Woodstock or the South Woodstock Fire Department.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Cabot Funeral Home in Woodstock. An on line guest book can be found at cabotfh.com