Kelly Jon Crane, 71, a lifelong resident of St. Maries, Idaho, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Kelly was born on July 16, 1954, in St. Maries to Jack and Leslie (Malloroy) Crane. He grew up in his beloved hometown and attended St. Mary’s Academy through the 8th grade. A natural athlete, Kelly excelled in wrestling, basketball, and football—so much so that the school famously had to order him a larger helmet to fit his “pumpkin head.” Beyond sports, he was active in 4-H and the Civil Air Patrol where he learned what flying was all about.

A proud graduate of St. Maries High School, Class of 1972, Kelly worked as a janitor at both the junior high and high school during his senior year—a true testament to his strong work ethic and community spirit.

After graduation, Kelly ventured to Spokane to work at the General Store, then on to Alaska to work on the slopes. In 1982, he married Marie Richwine, and together they moved to Colorado, where Kelly worked in the oil fields. The couple eventually returned home to St. Maries, where Kelly began a long and dedicated career with Potlatch Corporation, serving in various roles before retiring after 30 years, most recently as a forklift operator.

After decades of marriage, Kelly and Marie went their separate ways, and life later blessed him again with love when he married Serina Hatton. Although living together proved challenging resulting in divorce, their friendship endured and remained strong. Later, he found companionship and adventure with Marilyn Russell, sharing countless laughs, rides, and good times together. Kelly loved the ladies!

Kelly was well known for his love of the outdoors and found true peace in nature. He spent most of his life cutting wood and his retirement caring for Cherry Bend Boat Park and Scott’s Park, pridefully keeping them in beautiful shape. Whether he was cutting firewood, camping at Loop Creek or Nancy’s river lot, or riding his side-by-side, Kelly loved being surrounded by the St. Joe country he called home. Another love of Kelly’s was his grandchildren, they were the loves of his life.

A true motor enthusiast, Kelly had a deep love for classic cars and motorcycles. He recently sold his cherished GTO to buy a Harley-Davidson Tri-Glide, managing to ride 300 joyful miles before he was diagnosed with cancer. He was a proud member of the American Legion Riders, Kelly took two unforgettable trips to Sturgis—one of which included a small crash that he, in true “Crane style,” shrugged off with humor and grit and continued to enjoy his trip. In his younger days, he was also a member of the St. Joe Valley Car Club, where his antics, including donning coconut bikinis and streaking at the dances, became part of local legend. He also served as President of St. Maries’ adult softball league, another reflection of his love for community and good fun.

Kelly will forever be remembered for his big heart, bigger personality, and endless stories. He was friendly to everyone he met—he truly never knew a stranger. Whether lending a hand, sharing a laugh, or taking charge, Kelly left an indelible mark on those around him. To know him was to experience kindness, humor, and that unmistakable “Crane charm.”

Kelly is survived by his sons Jack (Toni) Crane of St. Maries and Cody (Brandey) Crane of Santa; his grandchildren Addie Crane of St. Maries, and Takodah and Paizley Crane of Santa; step-daughter Maria (Troy) Chambers of Lafayette, CO; siblings Judy Zook, Nancy Turner, Caren Crane (Tim Fuller), Dan (Shelly) Crane, and Joe Crane, all of St. Maries; his great-aunt Kay Sievert; numerous nieces and nephews; and his beloved fur babies, Bear Cat and Mayhem.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Leslie Crane, and nephews Patrick and Sean.

A celebration of Kelly’s life will be held at a later date—just the kind of gathering he would have wanted: full of laughter, music, and stories shared among friends.