Donald R. "Don" Cravens

Donald R. "Don" Cravens, a devoted family man, proud veteran, passed away on August 20, 2025, in Kokomo, Indiana. He was 89 years old.  Don was born on February 15, 1936, in Saline County, Illinois to John M. Cravens Jr and Bessie (Shadowens) Cravens.  

Don began his education at Bond School near Galatia, Illinois and later attended Marion Junior High School in Marion, Illinois. Don earned his GED and continued his education through the U.S. Air Force.

In June of 1954, Don enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, embarking on a distinguished 20-year military career. He completed basic training at Sampson AFB. Advanced training in Aircraft Electrical at Chanute AFB and later working in transportation. His service took him across the globe to bases including Norton AFB, Iceland, Mather AFB, Ramstein AFB, and Grissom AFB. Don served two tours in Vietnam before retiring honorably from Grissom AFB in 1974.

After retiring from the military, he worked their farm near Peru, Indiana—hosting many memorable 4th of July picnics that brought neighbors together and created lasting friendships. Don and his first wife Ruthann also ran the Cravens Trading Post in Peru. Where Don’s gift for haggling shined. His family often found themselves swept up in his latest finds and auction adventures - never quite knowing what he might bring home next.

 He enjoyed simple pleasures: playing poker with family, visiting antique malls and yard sales, haggling, watching westerns, spoiling his grandchildren and dog Chase.  Collecting classic cars with a special fondness for Cadillacs. Don was also an exceptional cook whose breakfasts, homemade bread, and pies are fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of sharing a meal with him.  

Don’s life was deeply rooted in faith & family. He studied the Bible daily. In his youth helped build Smart’s Chapel near his childhood home with his brothers and sister Ruby Clarida.

 Don was preceded in death by his two beloved wives: Ruthann (Spicka) Cravens, who passed away in 1996; and Peggy Cresto, who passed away in 2023. He was also preceded in death by his son Donald M. Cravens; sister Ruby Clarida; brothers Theodore "Ted" Cravens, Earl Cravens, Paul Cravens, Jessie Cravens, and Huey Cravens; sisters-in-law Marge Spicka, Ginny Krocker, and Nancy Schisler; and brothers-in-law Mike Spicka and Hank Krocker.

Left to treasure his memory are his children: Sue (Larry) Webb, Ted (Kim) Cravens, Maggie (John) Bartlett, Bette (Kevin) Moffett; stepson Lee Powell; Brother-in-law Ken Schisler, and several nieces and nephews.  Don's legacy continues through his cherished 18 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

A man of unwavering faith, Don lived a full life marked by service to country, devotion to family, friends, and everyday adventures. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to all who hear his story.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm Tuesday August 26, 2025, at Stout and Son Funeral Home, 200 E Main St., Russiaville, Indiana with Pastor Jason Grant officiating. Military honors will be provided by the United States Air Force and the Kokomo VFW Military Rites Team.  Friends are invited to visit with the family from 1-3 pm Tuesday at the funeral home. 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.