Dwight A. Cranston

Dwight A.Cranston, 89, went to be with the Lord on April 6th, 2022 in Longview, WA.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Marilyn Cranston; and three children whom he helped raise and see graduate from college, Lynn Cranston (David Pebles), Mike Cranston, and Marybeth Cranston (Ross Praytor). Dwight was a loving grandfather to eight grandchildren, Zachary Pebles, Mary Pebles, Amica Davis (Nathan), Courtney Cranston, Cameron Cranston, Haley Vandenhazel, Walker Vandenhazel, and Weston Vandenhazel; and two great-grandchildren, Braxton and Hayden Pebles. His surviving siblings are Jim Cranston (Lisa) of Federal Way, Jean Jakkus of Silver Lake, Sandy Hanson of Longview, Ron Clark of Seaview, Monte Clark (Sara McRae Clark) of Longview, and Margie Smith (Jack) of Naselle; plus numerous nieces and nephews.

He was born in 1932 to James (J.P.) and Wilma Cranston in Longview. In 1955 he married the love of his life and high school sweetheart Marilyn Swift, celebrating 67 years. Upon graduation from Castle Rock HS he attended LCC where he played football and basketball. Then joined the Navy and took great pride in serving his country.

He graduated from University of Puget Sound with a teaching degree and received his masters at Oregon State in 1963. He taught high school and coached football, basketball and track at Onalaska, Toledo, and R.A. Long HS for a total of 31 years teaching and 50 years coaching. He was awarded a WIAA Hall of Fame Coaching honor and also in the RAL Hall of Fame.

Dwight and wife Marilyn loved going to, and hosting, Cranston Clan reunions and get-togethers at Gee Cee’s in Toledo. In retirement he built a cabin and loved spending time there at Lake Cushman and traveling all over the United States and Canada. The highlight of Dwight’s travels was a trip to Scotland.

His memberships included Longview Community Church - Life Deacon, American Legion Post 155, Charter Member of Post 152 - Kelso Scottish American Military Post.

A Celebration of Dwight's life is planned for 1 p.m. May 22nd at the Longview Community Church. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to go to the R.A.Long HS Foundation Scholarship fund, 2903 Nichols Blvd. Longview WA 98632.