Obituary: Marlan L. Craker
Marlan L. Craker, age 85, of Reedsburg, WI passed away peacefully, with his family by his side, on Wednesday, October 13, 2021. Marlan was born on March 19, 1936 in the Town of Winfield. He was the son of Vinton and Viola (Wagner) Craker. Marlan married LaVera (Klitzke) Craker on December 3, 1955 and they had 5 wonderful children.
Marlan graduated from Reedsburg Area High School in 1954. He worked as a supervisor on the motor line for Hankscraft Motors for 20 years. He established Craker’s Acres and Craker Logging and Lumber where he farmed and logged with his sons. Marlan always took great pride in farming, raising cattle and crops. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with his family. He was a faithful member of St John Ev. Lutheran Church. Marlan will be remembered as a loving husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather and great grandfather.
Survivors include his loving wife of sixty-five years, LaVera; his children: Sheri (Ross Fuller) Craker, Sue (Rodney Deyo) Puttkamer, Jerry (Debbie) Craker and Jon (Carey) Craker. His grandchildren: Jennifer (James) Williams, Jason (Jenny) Puttkamer, Josh (Sarah) Puttkamer, Lindsey (Matt) Muchow, Caitey (Sam) Redeker, Lacey Craker, Nicholas Craker, Tanner Craker & Rydge (Brianna) Craker. Great grandchildren: August Williams, Jackson, Layla and Jake Puttkamer, Jace and Livia Puttkamer and Graham and Marlee Muchow. His best fur friend Zane. His sister, Evaline Klitzke, brother and sister- in-law, Lorna Slaney and Rupe Klitzke.
Marlan was preceded in death by his son, James Craker, infant grandson Ryan Puttkamer, his parents, Vinton and Viola Craker, siblings Delores Klitzke, brothers and sisters in law, William Kilitzke, Al and Vicky Klitzke, Morris Slaney, Ray and Elaine Newbury.
A funeral service for Marlan was conducted at 11:30 AM on Saturday, October 16, 2021 at St. John Ev. Lutheran Church, Reedsburg, with Pastor Beth Voigt officiating. A visitation was on Friday, October 15, 2021 from 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM at the Hoof Funeral home and again on Saturday from 10:30 AM until the time of the service.
The family would like to thank Connie from SSM Health at Home for the love, care and support provided.
In lieu of plants and flowers, the family is requesting memorials of remembrance to St John Ev. Lutheran Church.
The Hoof Funeral Home is serving the family.
