Robert Blackburn Crane, 88, passed away at E.T.York Hospice Care Center on May 27, 2012 in Gainesville, Florida.Captain Crane was born in Grosse Point, Michigan on January 11, 1924. He and his wife Constance (Connie) resided in The Village of Gainesville for the last several years. Formerly they lived in Cedar Key following his retirement from National Cargo Bureau in Tampa, Florida.Captain Crane and Constance Barber Foster, an artist, were married in New York City in 1974. Captain Crane served in the United States Navy 8 years ending with the Korean War and mustering out with the rank of Lieutenant. He then served in the United States Merchant Marines and retired with the rank of Captain, Master Mariner. During his voyages, he often took his wife, traveling far and wide; and on some trips they even took along their dog, Bowser. Captain Crane, while in Cedar Key was active in civic affairs and among other environmental interests he founded Florida's Nature Coast Conservancy, a non-profit land trust.Captain Crane is survived by his wife, Constance, sons, Michael, Kevin and Sean and a step-daughter, Meg. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Carly, Cassie and Stefan.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions should be made to Florida's Nature Coast Conservancy, P.O. Bos 401, Cedar Key, Fl 32625 and Haven Hospice, 4200 NW 90th Blvd, Gainesville, Fl 32606.There will be a memorial service at 1:00 PM on Friday, June 1, 2012 in The Village Chapel, 8000 NW 27th Blvd., Gainesville. Funeral Home Forest Meadows Funeral Home 725 NW 23rd Avenue Gainsville FL - 32609 US 352-378-2528