Howard Mccracken

Howard L McCracken, 95, of Carmel, passed away Sunday, September 25, 2016 at his son’s home. He was born September 7, 1921 in Indianapolis to the late Lowell and Elizabeth McCracken.

He graduated from Shortridge High School in 1939 and attended Indiana University. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy after the bombing of Pearl Harbor and served as an aviation machinist mate on two aircraft carriers. Howard saw action in the South Pacific. He was President of McCracken’s Message Center until 1987, after which he “retired” to work for another 20 years at Sundown Gardens Nursery in Carmel. He was a past member of the Indianapolis Rotary Club.

Howard enjoyed gardening, fishing, playing games, and attending Church, but most of all he loved spending time with his family. He loved and trusted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

Howard’s wife of 3 years, Phyllis Oldham McCracken, passed away in 2014. He was previously married for 65 years to his high school sweetheart, Deborah Thomas McCracken who preceded him in death in 2008. Howard is survived by his children, Sally (James) O’Neal, Nancy (Louis) Ruwet, Carol McCracken, Scott (Jacquelyn) McCracken and Julie (Robert) Modesto; 18 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; sister, Virginia Michael. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Suzanne Hughey, and sister, Margaret Tinsley.

Visitation will be Saturday, October 1, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Cornerstone Bible Church, 720 Liberty Dr., Westfield, IN 46074, with service immediately following.

Memorial contributions may be made to Cornerstone Bible Church. Please visit flannerbuchanan.com to sign the online guest register.