Max Crandell

Max Lee Crandell, age 86, of Battle Creek, MI, passed away on Thursday morning, October 6th, 2022 at home. He was taken care of by his loving wife, Sue, as well as much help from hospice during his long battle with parkinson's disease.

Max was born in Mecosta County, to Leo Crandell and Della (Eurick) Crandell on April 27th, 1937. He went to high school at Lakeview High and graduated in 1955. He enlisted in the United States Air Force Strategic Air Command and served several bases between 1954 and 1958. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering from Western Michigan University in 1964. During his 30-year working career at Kellogg Company, Max was instrumental in production scheduling advances and the development of computer programming initiatives.

Max was, proudly, a long-time member of the Garrison Hills Wesleyan Church. He was involved in their youth ministry and participated in many church building projects including driving their bus. In his younger years, Max enjoyed playing competitive softball in the Bailey Park and City leagues. He was an accomplished bowler. Max also enjoyed golf and was part owner of Pine Knoll golf course in the 70’s.

Max is survived by his wife, who shared more than fifty years of life with him, Sue (Beimfohr Zalner) Crandell. Daughter, Sherri (Gay) Pascoe, son-in-law Tim Pascoe, stepsons Tom (Wendy) Zalner, Jeff (Courtney) Zalner. Grandchildren, Nathan (Cara) Gay, Brian Gay (Nicole Shephard), Kali Zalner, Jessica Zalner (Derrick Elizondo), Lacy Wheeler, Caleb (Ashley) Trumbull, Kennedy Wheeler-Kinne, and Brady Black. Great grandchildren, Cameron, Chloe, Jonathan, and Ryan Gay. Sister, Alberta (Kipp) Murphy. Brothers, Norm (Cathy) Crandell, Gordon (Donna) Crandell. Sister-in-law, Kay Dingwall. Former spouse Vianne Nichols. As well as several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his son, Steve Crandell, two brothers and one sister, and always remembering all of our beloved animals.

Max was a quiet, strong and supportive man who gave unconditional love to his family and friends. He loved God most of all and was devoted to a loving relationship with his Savior Jesus Christ.

A memorial service is scheduled for 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, October 11, 2022, at Garrison Hills Wesleyan Church, 195 Bradley St., Battle Creek, with inurnment to follow at Fort Custer National Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Elara Caring Hospice, Humane Society of South Central Michigan, St Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Tunnels to Towers.  Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.henryfuneralhome.org