Harold "Ray" Crannell

Harold Raymond “Ray” Crannell, 90, of Adel, IA passed away on Monday, May 6, 2024 at the VA Medical Center in Iowa City, IA surrounded by family.

Ray was born in Bouton, IA on Christmas Eve in 1933 to Harold David Crannell and Anna (Scott) Crannell. He spent his childhood on his family farm, and graduated from Perry High School. After graduation he entered the service. Ray served in the Korean War from 1953-1957 as a member of the United States Air Force repairing B29 Bomber plane engines. Upon his return from the service, Ray started his work as a hog buyer and spent most of his professional career as a hog buyer for various companies in the state of Iowa.

It was near his family home that Ray met the love of his life, Glenna Barnett, at the Lake Robbins Ballroom. The two were married on June 21, 1959 and raised 4 children together.

Throughout their marriage, Ray and Glenna loved listening to classic country music and dancing. They also enjoyed finding hidden treasures at garage sales, traveling all around the United States in their camper, and spending time with family. In his free time, Ray could often be found tending to his yard/garden, tinkering in his garage, or creating woodworking projects. He will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend.

Ray is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Glenna; his siblings, Helen, Doris, Donald, and Roger; and his son, Steven Crannell.

Those left to cherish Ray’s memory are his children, Michael (Alison) Crannell, Lisa (Dave Vajgrt) Gassman, and Matthew (Malinda) Crannell; his daughter-in-law, Vicki Crannell; his siblings, Larry (Linda) Crannell, JoAnn Noack, and Donna Acklin; his sister-in-law, Dorthea Peterson, as well as 8 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Per the wishes of the family, a private family graveside service will be held at Violet Hill Cemetery in Perry. Memorial contributions can be made to the family for a future designation. Condolences can be expressed to the family at caldwellparrish.com.