Mike Craanen

Born in Wyandotte, Mike was the son of Gerald and Catherine (Doctor) Craanen. He faithfully served our country in the United States Army. He then married the love of his life, Brenda Huff, on June 6, 1959. Mike worked as a Bricklayer at McLouth Steel for over 32 years, retiring in 1983. He was a member of the Steelworkers Union and had served as the Union Steward. He also was a faithful member of St. Charles Catholic Church. Mike always had a story to tell and was a huge jokester, he was always there for his family and would give the shirt off his back. His children never did without and he taught them the value of hard work. Mike enjoyed working on cars and deer hunting, but his most treasured times were those spent with his family. Mike leaves to cherish his memory, Brenda, his wife of the past 59 years; children: Geraldine (John) Ash of Monroe, Carol (Kevin) Dikowski of Newport, Michael (Carmen) Craanen of Monroe, Bill Craanen of Newport, Don Craanen of Melbourne, Florida and Joe (Michelle) Craanen of Monroe; Grandchildren: John Ash, Christopher Ash, Chelsea Dikowski, Zachary Dikowski, Michael Craanen, Kensley Craanen-Hansen, Katie Craanen, Joseph Craanen and Morgan Bogdanski-Craanen; a great granddaughter Delaney Craanen; as well as a sister Geraldine Craanen. Sadly he was preceded in death by his parents and five brothers: Richard Craanen, Robert Craanen, Tom Craanen, Norm Craanen and Jake Craanen. Memorial contributions in honor of Mike may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org. Please click on tribute wall above to view Mike's video.