Oliver McCracken, Jr (Bolivar)'s Obituary
Oliver McCracken, Jr, 89, of Sarasota, FL passed away Wednesday, November 15, 2017 at Heartland Health Facility in Sarasota, FL.
Oliver was born July 28, 1928 to Oliver and Lola Durnell McCracken in Humansville, MO. Oliver lived his life as a dedicated man.
He dedicated himself to education by earning a doctorate from the University of Missouri and using that to teach and administer schools. He would finalize his career as the Superintendent of the Skokie School District in Skokie, IL, where he was honored by having the middle school bear his name.
He dedicated himself to the service of his country at the height of the Korean War, serving in Army intelligence from 1951 to 1954.
He dedicated himself to his wife Elizabeth, staying faithfully by her side for 65 years of marriage.
Oliver was also a man of many gifts. He used his talents in administration to head his country club as President. He also had the highlight of having 7 holes-in-one. He was known as the ultimate ambassador, using his calming presence and social skills to be the voice of reason in the room.
Oliver loving friend, husband, and father who leaves behind a legacy of care, generosity, and patience.
Oliver is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, as well as his three children; Rebecca McCracken and husband Glenn Wade, Mary DeMarco and husband Dan, and Mark McCracken and wife Lynn. He is also survived by his grandchildren; Kelly Glick and husband Josh, Gina Dantin and husband Dustin, Erin DeMarco, Christine McCracken, Michele McCracken, Shaun McCracken, Tim McCracken, and Kevin McCracken, as well as one great-grandchild, Camille Dantin.
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