Clark D. Cranston, 78

Clark D. Cranston, 78, passed away on Sunday, April 9, 2017, in Sandpoint, Idaho.

Clark was born on March 14, 1939, in the Township of Elkton, Minnesota, to James A. Cranston and Helen Margaret Habeck. After completing school in Minnesota, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on April 23, 1958.

He was in the Marines for six years and honorably discharged on April 22, 1964, with the rank of sergeant. He became a pilot while in the Marines and this was to become his lifetime occupation and passion. Clark was hired by United Airlines in February 1965 and took his last trip as a 747 captain to Tokyo with his wife Nancy along for this trip. He officially retired from United Airlines on Jan. 1, 1996.

Before moving to Sandpoint, Clark lived in Foster City, California, and Boise, Idaho. Clark built a beautiful log home in Sagle, Idaho, in 1991 and remained there for the remainder of his life. While still enjoying flying his own plane, Clark seldom (if ever) traveled commercially. Once he gave up flying his Mooney, he was content to work on his property, driving his tractor and maintaining the property.

He enjoyed fishing, boating and cooking. Watching cooking shows became a favorite pastime of his. He was always the chef and took pride in the meals he prepared for himself and his friends. He loved being on his boat with Edie and rafting up with friends on the lake, eating and socializing. If he was your friend, he was a friend for life. Clark leaves behind many good friends who have shown great concern for Clark in these last two months.

Clark is survived by his three children, son Clark Dennis Cranston Jr. (wife Heidy) of Proctor, Vermont, daughter Leanne Jean Martin, and son James Dennis Cranston; and three grandchildren, Nathan, Ellissa and Logan.

His partner of over 16 years, Edith (Edie) Doyle preceded him in death only two months ago. All Clark’s friends are certain that Edie will be waiting for him with a cocktail in hand.

Clark is now leaving on his last flight. He will be missed by his family and friends. There will be a celebration of life at a later date. Donations in his name can be given to DayBreak Center, 820 Main, Sandpoint, ID 83864. We would like to thank Bonner General and Life Care for their compassionate care.

Lakeview Funeral Home in Sandpoint is handling the arrangements. Please visit Clark’s online memorial at www.lakeviewfuneral.com and sign his guest book.