Donald Crafton Obituary

Donald Crafton passed away peacefully on Sunday June 8th at his home in Osage Beach Missouri. His wife of 58 years, Janet Crafton (Koch), was by his side. Originally from Manito, Illinois, they moved to Osage Beach, Missouri in their retirement years.
Jan survives along with two children, Steve Crafton (Carolyn Crafton) of Geneseo, Illinois and Michelle Crafton (Scott Hofmann) of Marquette Heights, Illinois. Three grandchildren Jessica Bumbalough of Marquette Heights, Illinois, Elizabeth Gernant (Steven Gernant) of Andover, Illinois, Sophia Crafton of Coal Valley, Illinois and a step grandson Forrest Brewster (Mary Alice Brewster) of Indianapolis, Indiana. Five great grandchildren; Charli, Sully, Hollis, and Jase Bumbalough of Marquette Heights, Illinois and Zoe Brewster of Indianapolis, Indiana.
He began his career working at Caterpillar and taking night classes, eventually getting hired as a loan officer at CEFCU in Pekin, Illinois. Don helped CEFCU open many branches during his time at CEFCU, including locations in Lincoln, Illinois and Des Moines, Iowa. He became Vice President and retired after over thirty years of service.
Whether it be on the Illinois river during the early days or vacationing in the summer at the Lake of the Ozarks, Don enjoyed spending a great amount of time on the water. As he taught family and friends how to swim, ski, or boat he made sure they developed a love and respect for the water. He always had a good time dove, rabbit, and goose hunting with his friends and family. After retirement he enjoyed taking his horse Sonny on trail rides at the Sand Ridge State Forest. He made a lot of good friends over the years and appreciated their smiles, conversation, and laughter throughout.
Don had a saying, "It's a sad day when you leave the Lake.". Sunday June 8th, a good man left the Lake.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Community United Methodist Church in Manito with Pastor Steve Oaks officiating, burial to follow at Meadow Lawn Cemetery. Visitation will be held the same day from 9:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM also at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Manito Food Bank. Online condolences can be left at www.hurleyfh.com. Maas-Hurley Funeral Home in Manito is in charge of the arrangements.