A Masonic service for Melvin Leon Crane (US Navy, Ret), 94, will be conducted at one o’clock on Saturday, February 17, 2018 in the chapel of Murphy Funeral Home, 4510 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22203. Burial with honors will be held at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery.
Melvin passed away Monday, January 29, 2018. Born in Edgerton, VA, he was the son of the late Ryford Kidder and Elsie Madge Crane. He proudly served over 40 years in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Navy Reserves acquiring the rank of Lt. Commander. It was while in the Navy he met his wife of 70 years, Rosella T. Crane. Melvin was a graduate of the University of Richmond, receiving his BS degree in mathematics and physics. Eventually, he and Rosella made their home in Arlington, VA where he worked at the Naval Research Lab over 35 years as a Patent Advisor.
Melvin was a 32nd Degree Mason and a member of the Arlington Centennial-Glebe Masonic Lodge #81 where he served as Worshipful Master. He was also District Deputy Grand Master of District 54 and a member of Kena Shriners, Knights Templar, Royal Arch, Scottish Rite, and Order of the Eastern Star.
Melvin and Rosella retired to South Carolina in 2012.
Surviving in addition to his wife, Rosella, are sons, Lawrence “Larry” W. Crane (Rosie), Dennis G. Crane (Dionne), David A. Crane (Elyse); daughters, Carol C. Gasque, and Marianne K. Crane (Lynda). He is also survived by grandchildren, Jeremy, Jeffrey, Aynsley, Marcos, Thomas, James, Joshua, Daniel, Bethany; and nine great-grandchildren.
Memorials may be made to the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital.
Please sign the online guestbook at www.dunbarfunerals.com.
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