James Arthur Cranker, 93, of Bowling Green, Ohio passed away March 6, 2024. He was born February 27, 1931 in Bowling Green to the late Harry and Lucy (Onofrio) Cranker. He married Sandra Lee Smoyer on June 30, 1956 and she survives in Bowling Green.
Jim was a 1949 graduate of Bowling Green High School where he excelled in Basketball and Track. He earned All-State honors for basketball as a senior. Following high school, Jim played basketball professionally for the Boston Whirlwinds that traveled with the Globe Trotters to compete around the country. His love of sports and competitiveness continued throughout his life as he played golf, attended his grandchildren’s activities and attended any college & professional sporting events he could.
Jim served his country proudly in the United States Marines. He and Sandy owned and operated Cranker’s Restaurant in Bowling Green for nearly 30 years. They poured their heart and soul into the restaurant which was a popular spot for many in the Bowling Green community to gather. He was a member of the Bowling Green Country Club and the Bowling Green Elks Lodge.
Along with his wife of 67 years, Sandy, Jim is survived by his children Michael (Laura) Cranker of Bowling Green, Ohio and Michele Snider (Don Turk) of Toledo, Ohio, grandchildren Tammy (Dan) Ward of Weston, Ohio, Jesse (Roshini) Cranker of Edmonton Alberta, Canada and Morgan Snider of Cleveland, Ohio and great-grandchildren Keaton Cranker, Sadie Cranker, Sky Ward and Raidin Ward.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be announced at a later date. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Dunn Funeral Home in Bowling Green.
Memorial contributions may be given in his memory to The American Heart Association or Bridge Hospice.
To share an online condolence or fond memory with the family, please visit www.dunnfuneralhome.com.
