Alan (Al) Cracknell, age 74, of Lansdale, formerly of Oreland, just 3 weeks shy of his 75th birthday, lost his battle with cancer on Friday, December 8, 2017. He fought a valiant battle over the last several years. He always pulled through, like a cat with 9 lives. Now he may rest in the warmth of Heaven hanging out with a beer in his hand.
Alan is the beloved husband of 52 years of Paula (Pollock) Cracknell. He was born in Philadelphia and raised in Oreland. He was the youngest of 3 sons to Henry and Marjorie (Trexler) Cracknell. Alan proudly served in the United States Air Force as a mechanic fixing planes stateside during the Vietnam War. He continued to work as a mechanic fixing machines until his retirement. He had an unwavering pride for his country which he proudly showed in his display of American flags and his Bald Eagle collection.
Alan is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Paula, and their daughters: Cheryl Schneider (husband Gerard), Elaine Shellenberger (husband Dale), preceded in death by his daughter, Amy Strohecker 2001 (husband Michael), and Megan Garner (husband James). He has 9 grandchildren: Gerard Schneider III (wife Leigh-Anne), Dylan Patterson (wife Alyssa), Timothy Schneider, Keelan Ditlow, Connor Strohecker, Amylynn Garner, Timothy Garner, Jacob Garner, and Devyn Garner, as well as 3 great grandchildren: Ryan Patterson, Lucas Patterson, and Gavin Patterson.
Al may have been a quiet and reserved person, but he loved his family greatly. He loved a good laugh, the company of good friends and family, and a cheap beer. Relatives and friends are called to share the life of Alan Cracknell and raise a Pabst on Saturday, December 16, 2017 at the home of Cheryl and Jerry Schneider from 1-4pm at 101 Garth Rd. Oreland, Pa 19075.
Dear Paula and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. You have a beautiful family who, I know, will help you handle the loss of your dear husband of 52 years. He is with Our Lord now, and is no longer in pain
Ray and Maryann Gardner
So sorry to hear about Al. Alot of fond memories back in the 70’s on Plymouth ave. He was a funny guy we had alot of laughs. Our deepest sympathy and prayers to Paula and family.
Theresa and Bill (Twig) Krauth
Growing up in Springfield Township and graduating from Springfield class of 62 the class of 1960 was the class that we the class of 62 looked up to. I’m not sure if that is where I met two of the Cracknell boys or was it through Billy Neil? Then when my daughter became friends with Cheryl and I with Paula it just seemed so nice. I know how close they are as a family and I know that they will always be there for each other. I am so sorry for your loss.
I will miss you uncle Alan. Love you , your nephew Billy .