Benjamin Ray Crane

Benjamin “Ben” Ray Crane, 48, of Eastsound Wash. and formally of Challis, ID, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2012 in Eastsound. He was born on March 2, 1964, the son of Earl and Hazel (Skeen) Crane.

Ben grew up in Challis and was an active outdoorsman. His great joy and first priority were his four daughters, after the death of his first wife.

He was a taxidermist and also a heavy equipment operator. Ben was an amazing single parent, who would do anything for his girls, who he included in everything he did, including hunting, fishing camping and taxidermy.

He was a jokester whose laugh was infectious. Ben moved to Eastsound, Wash. 14 years ago, and just recently married Kristen Bickmore, a longtime companion. Ben was truly an honest, fun and loving man who will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his wife Kristen; daughters, Colleen and Tiffaney Crane of Long Beach, Calif., Jessi Crane of Idaho Falls and Stephanie Crane who has been missing since 1993; step-sons, Austin James and DJ Bickmore; mom, Hazel Crane of Challis, ID; brother’s and spouse, Alfred Crane of Belgrade, Mont., and Rob and Cindy Crane of Challis, ID; sister Patty Sensabaugh of Challis, ID.; grandmother Georgia Skeen of Challis, ID; mother-in-law, Joan Brooks of Aberdeen, Wash. and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held on Oct. 16 at the Orcas Community Church in Eastsound. A graveside service was held on Oct. 19 at the Challis Cemetery in Challis, ID. Arrangements are in the care of Evans Funeral Chapel and Crematory, Inc., Anacortes, Wash. and the San Juan Islands. To share memories of Ben, please sign the online guest register at www.evanschapel.com.