Racine – Joseph Edward Cranley, age 79, passed away peacefully at Ascension – All Saints Hospital on Saturday, August 12, 2017.

Joe was born in Racine on December 28, 1937 to the late Michael John "Jack" and Mary Ann (nee: Hillig) Cranley. He graduated from St. Catherine's High School in 1957 and went on to earn his degree in education, as well as a master's degree in art history from UW-Milwaukee. On August 22, 1959 in Holy Trinity Church, he was united in marriage with Judith Ann (nee: Foldy).

Extremely talented in the fine arts, Joe was an art instructor for Racine Unified School District from 1965 – 1999 having taught at Starbuck and Walden. Outside of art, Joe enjoyed trout fishing, bird watching, wild flowers, history and crossword puzzles.

Surviving are his loving wife of nearly 58 years, Judy; their son & daughter-in-law, Sean & Jackie Cranley; grandchildren, Breeyn (James Hilderbrand) Cranley, Caelyn Cranley and Logan Cranley; sister, Kathleen (nee: Cranley) Amantea; brother, James "Jim" (Nancy Drew) Cranley; sisters-in-law, Janet Cranley, Joanne (Rev. Warren) Williams and Margaret Robinson; brother-in-law, Jim (Kathy) Foldy; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Rana Marie Cranley (1975); sister, Colleen (John) Graham; brothers, Michael, Patrick, Dennis and Thomas Cranley; and by Judy's parents, Edward and Gladys (nee: Patrick) Foldy.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, August 17, 2017 at 11:00 am at Living Faith Lutheran Church, 2915 Wright Avenue, with Rev. Dr. Warren D. Williams officiating. Visitation will be in the Church on Thursday from 10:00 – 11:00 am. Memorials to RAM (Racine Art Museum), Racine Zoological Society, Segue Racine (for the homeless) or to one's favorite local charity.

A special note of thanks to Ascension – All Saints Hospital for the compassionate care and support given in our time of need. May God bless all of you!

Service Details

Memorial Service: Thursday, August 17, 2017 at 11:00 am at Living Faith Lutheran Church, 2915 Wright Avenue

Visitation: in the church on Thursday from 10:00 – 11:00 am

Memorial Suggestions

RAM (Racine Art Museum), Racine Zoological Society, Segue of Racine (for the homeless) or to one's favorite charity

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