Lonnie Crampton

Crampton, Lonnie Giles - Age 83, of Grand Blanc, formerly of Harrisville and Flushing, died December 16, 2022. He was cremated and his family will celebrate his life privately in the Spring. Arrangements by Sharp Funeral Homes, Linden Chapel, 209 East Broad Street, Linden. Contributions may be made in his memory to Lincoln Lions Club (PO Box 465, Lincoln, MI  48742.)

Lonnie was born February 21, 1939 in Flint, Michigan, the son of Wayne and Helen Loreda (Morris) Crampton. Lonnie grew up in Clio, Michigan.  He graduated from Clio High School in 1957 as the class salutatorian. Lonnie elected to attend The University of Michigan after high school.  While working at Anchor Motor Freight he met his future wife.  He married Rita Colangelo on August 18, 1961. In December of 1962, he was drafted by the U.S. Army, serving two years at FT. Bliss, Texas.  Where he earned The Army Commendation Medal, and rank of SP4 E4. Lonnie earned his Bachelor's degree from Spring Arbor University at the age of 46.  He retired as a Staff Assistant for Special Studies in 1992 from General Motors-AC Spark Plug Division. He lived in Flushing until his retirement, then moved to Harrisville. Lonnie was always a huge sports fan.  He spent his retirement fishing, hunting, bowling, woodworking, and golfing. During his retirement years, Lonnie was an avid fly tier.  He and some friends started Golden Hackle Artisans.  They attended many expos and shows promoting the team’s creations.  He was very proud of celebrating his 50th wedding anniversary with a trip to Alaska with his wife, Rita.  They celebrated 58 years together.  Lonnie was a member of Lincoln Lions Club having served as President in the past. He was very active in coaching hockey for his sons and other youth teams.  He was a member of the Greater Flint Hockey Association where he also served as a past President.  Lonnie also coached for Flushing High School hockey for a few years.

He is survived by two sons, Jeffrey (Brenda) Crampton and Charles (Theresa) Crampton; five grandchildren, Emily (Garrett), Hannah (Matt), Tom, Ian, and Heather; great-grandson, Maverik; sister, Janet (Richard) Swift; several nieces, nephews and many friends, including those from The Corner in Harrisville.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Rita on December 3, 2019.

Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com