Thad David Crane

On May 7, 2021 well-loved Cut Bank resident Thad David Crane died in his home at 58 years of age.

Thad was born October 9, 1962 in Minot, North Dakota to Robert H. (Bob) and M. Ruste Crane. He attended schools in Great Falls and Whitefish and studied drafting at DeVry University Phoenix. He married Susie Wood and they had two daughters, Jane and Meghyn. He served in the Navy over 11 years. After training as a radioman for submarines he became a communications expert for SEAL teams, visiting destinations not on the usual tourist routes.

Thad moved to Cut Bank in the late 1990’s and became a well-loved member of the community. He married Kim Phythian. He was a long time Elks member and early in his time in Cut Bank he was an avid supporter of Cut Bank wrestling.  Thad was a familiar face at Billman’s in Cut Bank where he enjoyed working for many years.  He was an advocate of dog rescues, rescuing several and adopting 2 dachshunds whom he loved. He was game for anything outdoors and enjoyed fishing, fly fishing, 4-wheeling, shooting gophers, golfing, camping. He loved the vacations he took to the tropics and often dreamed of his next visit.

Most of all, Thad liked people. He was gregarious, welcoming and very kind hearted. Thad was glad to join in a conversation, bringing empathy and warmth as well as a helping hand to any project. He was a good neighbor and a great friend. He particularly enjoyed spending time with and helping his dear friends Grant and Carmen Tuma. Thad is going to be greatly missed.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Ruste Crane and his daughter, Meghyn Crane.

He is survived by his other daughter, Jane McKinley of Lancaster, OH and her children, Jane and Maxxton as well as Meghyn’s daughter, Susie Nichols of Ashland, OH. He is also survived by his brothers, Charlie (Nancy) Crane of Asheville, NC and Rob Crane of Athens, GA and nephews and nieces.

Thad’s ashes will be scattered on the Tuma property at his favorite place.

Graveside services will be Tuesday, June 29 at 4:00 at Crown Hill Cemetery to honor Thad. Then join the family afterwards at Cut Bank Creek Brewery from 4:30-6:00 to reminisce and celebrate this special friend.

Memorials for Thad Crane may be given to Leetta’s Rez Dog Rescue at P.O. Box 332, Cut Bank, MT 59427.