Crank, Jimmie

Jimmie R. Crank, Sr., 80, of New Baden, IL died Sunday, March 16, 2014 at Memorial Hospital in Belleville, IL. He was born October 17, 1933 in Liberal, MO, son of John Robert and Maggie Louise (Milligan) Crank. He married Chieko Ito on April 17, 1972 in Japan and she survives in New Baden, IL. In addition to his wife he is survived by his children, Nina Thacker of Green Cove Springs, FL, Merrilee Crank of Lady Lake, FL, and Tina Smith of Green Cove Springs, FL; four grandchildren, Jeff, Ronnie, Randi, and Miranda; and eight great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by all of his siblings. Mr. Crank was a veteran of the United States Navy, serving for 20 years. After he retired from the Navy he worked for the Zenith TV Co. in Springfield, MO and also as a substitute postal deliverer in Galena, MO. He was a member of the Amateur Radio Club and was a ham radio enthusiast. Friends may call from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 20, 2014 at Hempen Funeral Home in New Baden, IL. Burial will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, MO.