Stephen Reed Crane, age 58, known to many as “Craner,” passed away peacefully on Monday, February 16, 2026, at his home in Alexandria.

A celebration of life will be held from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at the Eagles Club in Alexandria. A full meal will be provided.

Steve was born on May 10, 1967, in St. Paul, he was the oldest child of Robert and Theresa Crane. The family moved to Alexandria in the early 1970’s where Steve attended St. Mary’s Catholic School, Central Junior High School and graduated from Jefferson Senior High School in 1986. He then completed his two-year degree at the Alexandria Technical College in machining.

Steve was an active member of several organizations, including the Rocky Mountain Elks and the Elks Lodge, where he served as a Trustee. He was also involved with the Eagles Club, served as Chairman of the Vikings Ducks Unlimited chapter, and held the role of Zone Chair for Ducks Unlimited. Alongside his brother, David, he helped host the hospitality room known as “The Duck Blind” at the State Convention, a tradition they both took immense pride in. Throughout his career, Steve also established and managed several businesses of his own.

Steve’s sense of humor, one-liners, and quick wit were legendary, and no one was immune. You never quite knew what he would say next—but whatever it was, it was sure to leave the room in stitches.

He cherished the earlier years spent heading off to deer camp with friends, attending We Fest, and gathering with cousins—but more than anything, it was the camaraderie he loved most. Steve had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and included. He enjoyed impromptu get-togethers and would drop everything to help a friend in need—that was simply how he lived his life. Loyalty meant everything to Steve, and his friends knew they could always count on him. He will be missed beyond measure by all who knew him. He left too soon, and our hearts are broken.

He was preceded in death by his beloved father, Robert Stuart Crane; infant brother Robert Forest Crane; grandparents; many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends; his first dog Nikki the Dalmatian; and notoriously local celebrity dogs, Neuman and Jake, whom he loved equally an undoubtably welcomed him home!

Steve is survived by his mother Theresa Crane; brother David Crane; sister, Elizabeth (Jeff) Greene; nephews, Jared Greene and Dylan (Azalea) Greene; niece, Felicia (Adam) Fredrickson; many cousins whom he loved dearly; countless numbers of friends; and his last four-legged pet Kevin, who brought him so much joy.

“Drive fast and take chances.” - Steve Crane