Elmer Milford Cranford Obituary (1922

Elmer Milford Cranford, 85, passed away, June 24, 2007 at home, with family at his side. Milford was born, May 6, 1922 in Winterhaven, CA to John and Lela Cranford. He had one brother, Jesse, and one sister Willa Mae. He was raised in Tulare County and graduated from Tulare Union High School. Shortly after, he met Carrie Lou Pritchett and they were married Feb. 14, 1922. Not long after, Milford was drafted into the US Army. He applied and was accepted into the Aviation Cadets and earned his wings. He was assigned to Kingman Army Airfield, where he flew B17's. After WWII ended, he flew C46 medical transports, bringing wounded troops home from the Pacific Theater. Following his military service, Milford worked in the logging and lumber industry for 32 years before retiring. Milford and Carrie Lou raised 3 children, two sons, Kevin Downey, Donovan Kyle and one daughter, Jana Lynne. You would always find children at the center of their home, first their own children, then foster children and grandchildren. Milford was a consummate outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing and just being out of doors. As a family they enjoyed time together traveling and exploring. In 2002, after celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary, Milford lost his wife, Carrie Lou. Shortly thereafter, he moved to Washington State to be closer to family. He began communicating with Maxine Hamrick, a long time friend of Carrie Lou's. They enjoyed each other's company and once again found happiness. They were married in 2003. Milford and Maxine enjoyed many adventures, which included a 7000 mile road trip to Alaska and back towing their 32' travel trailer. Milford was a man of integrity, generosity, and amazing strength. He continues to be an inspiration to all who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Maxine Cranford, two sons Kevin (Paula) Cranford of Poulsbo; Donovan (Tembrel) Cranford of Porterville, CA; one daughter, Jana (Rick) Bradley of Porterville, CA; seven grandchildren, John, Greg, Deidre, Carrie, Donovan, Jr., Aneka, Ryan and 8 great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held Wed, June 27, 2007, 11AM at The Stone Chapel in Poulsbo. An online memorial may be viewed at www.lewischapel.com