David Forrest Crane, 83, of Nashville, Tennessee, was welcomed into the arms of his Savior on May 13, 2025. Born on January 24, 1942, in Indianapolis, Indiana, David grew up in Loogootee, Indiana, and lived a life defined by boundless love for people, an unshakable faith in Jesus, and an eternal optimism that inspired all who knew him, leaving behind a legacy of connection and kindness.
David’s journey began in Loogootee, where he graduated from Loogootee High School in 1960. He then attended Purdue University, becoming a lifelong Boilermaker fan, cheering passionately for Purdue sports. He lived in Washington, Indiana, for 34 years before moving to Nashville, Tennessee, in 2006.
As the third-generation owner of DF Crane Construction, David built more than structures—he built communities, constructing churches, hotels, schools, and office buildings across the Midwest. Undoubtedly, his favorite work was that which allowed him to work with his sons, Ryan and Chad, who helped him build his last hotels and a unique Christian community and worship center in Nashville. Throughout his career, his work was approached with a heart for serving others.
At the core of David’s life was his love for Jesus Christ, which he shared with infectious joy. He delighted in discussing the teachings of the Bible, forging deep connections with friends, strangers, and everyone in between. His faith shone through his decades-long service to the United Methodist Church, including 16 years as a delegate to the United Methodist Church General Conference and Annual Conference. He served 12 years on the board of directors for the United Methodist Publishing House in Nashville, Tennessee, and helped create the Power House in Washington, Indiana—a ministry that nurtured junior high and high school youth through relationships and the gospel. David’s faith was a living testament, expressed in every smile, conversation, and act of generosity.
David’s love for people was matched only by his devotion to his family, especially his cherished wife of 46 years, Patti. Their marriage was a beautiful partnership, grounded in faith and filled with laughter, shared adventures, deep affection, and unwavering love and support, all accompanied by a soundtrack of romantic jazz. Patti was his greatest love and constant companion, whether they were hosting friends, traveling to their beloved Santa Rosa Mountains, or simply enjoying quiet moments together under the stars. David’s eyes would twinkle when he spoke of her, and their bond was a testament to love’s enduring strength.
After their marriage, David and Patti’s years in Washington, Indiana, were a cherished chapter, as they raised their young, combined family in a tight-knit community. The friendships forged and memories created during this time were treasures to them both, and this period laid a strong foundation of love and togetherness, which David carried forward in every aspect of his life.
As a grandfather, “Poppy” was a source of both wisdom and joy to his grandchildren—Forrest, William, Samuel, Hannah, Ava, Noah, Owen, and Halle. He cherished every moment shared with them, from teaching them how to drive a golf cart, spotting big horn sheep on the mountain, picking grapefruit and lemons off trees, “fishing” for unique golf balls, or just relaxing by the pool. He was always sharing stories that sparked wonder and emphasized the importance of love, loyalty, and togetherness. His optimism was his enduring gift to his family, encouraging them to embrace life’s possibilities and love others deeply.
David’s passion for golf was more than a hobby; it was a way to weave his love for people into every moment. On the fairways of PGA National in Jupiter, Florida, Victoria National Country Club in Evansville, Indiana, PGA West in La Quinta, California, and Richland Country Club in Nashville, he built friendships, nurtured business ties, and created treasured memories with family. His love for the Santa Rosa Mountains and the desert towns of Palm Springs, Indian Wells, and La Quinta reflected his appreciation for God’s creation and his knack for finding beauty in every setting. David was an active member of the Columbia Club, The Country Club of Indianapolis, The John Purdue Club, and Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity. He also served on the Board of Directors of People’s National Bank and German American Bank in Washington, Indiana.
David cherished his Tuesday night men’s group at Richland Country Club in Nashville, where he found joy in lively camaraderie. These gatherings were a highlight of his week, filled with friendly banter, spirited political debates, and the exchange of heartfelt anecdotes from life.
Having earned a private pilot’s license, David spent many years flying for both business and pleasure, always eager to explore new horizons and connect with others. He relished the opportunity to build new relationships and earn the trust of clients, which came naturally through his warm Midwestern demeanor and value-driven sensibility. His life was a celebration of relationships, from the countless friends he welcomed like family to the strangers he greeted with a warm handshake and a story.
David took great delight in writing an “annual” Christmas letter, a tradition that reflected his deep desire to stay connected with friends and family, near and far. Each letter was a heartfelt tapestry of updates, reflections, and gratitude, penned with his signature optimism and warmth. Through these letters, he nurtured bonds with friends old and new, ensuring that distance never dimmed the light of his affection and care.
David was preceded in death by his parents, Donald Forrest Crane and June Pruitt Crane; sister, Deborah Crane; and sons, Richard Todd Crane and Chad Martin Crane. He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Patricia Crane; children, Erin Hughes, David Crane II (Chris), Ryan Crane, and Tricia Ericson (Eric); and grandchildren, Forrest Crane, William Crane, Samuel Crane, Hannah Ericson, Ava Ericson, Noah Crane, Owen Crane, and Halle Crane.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Anna Winters with Alive Hospice for the compassionate care she provided David in his final days and to the exceptional team of doctors and nurses at Vanderbilt University Medical Center who treated David with such kindness and respect. David Forrest Crane lived a life that radiated the love of Jesus, the joy of family, and a boundless affection for others. His optimism and kindness will echo in the hearts of all who knew him.
Mr. Crane will be privately buried at Sugarland Cemetery.
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