Lonnie "Bud" Cravens

Lonnie “Bud” Cravens, age 84, of Alton, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, September 4, 2025.

Born on September 23, 1940, in Alton, Illinois, Lonnie was the son of the late Kenneth and Verneda (Hausman) Cravens.

A proud Army veteran, Lonnie served his country with honor before beginning a long career with the Mallinckrodt Company, where he worked as a pipefitter. Lonnie loved golfing, traveling, and enjoying his cigars, as well as cheering on his favorite NASCAR drivers and football teams. He will be remembered for his quick wit, easy smile, and his unmatched ability to deliver the perfectly timed curse word.

Lonnie is survived by his son, Todd Cravens; his beloved dog, "Oshie"; two stepsons, John and Scott Dixon; four grandchildren, Brandon Wheeler, Sarah White, Hannah Dyer, and Austin Cravens; eight great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia “Ginger” Cravens; daughters, Kelly Cravens (in infancy) and Valorie (Wheeler) Davies; and four sisters, Barbara Kempf, Donna Green, Connie Goode, and Linda Woodfin.

The family extends their gratitude to the BJC healthcare team, Vitas Hospice, and all of his at-home caregivers..

Memorial donations may be made to the Vitas Hospice Program

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