Obituary of Bert E. Cratsley

Bert E. Cratsley, 67, of Cty. Rte. 21, passed away peacefully Sunday (April 2, 2017) at the Hospice Buffalo in Cheektowaga following a courageous battle with cancer. Bert was born November 18, 1949 in Westfield, Pa. to the late Albert and Elizabeth (Eckler) Cratsley. On March 30, 2013 in Canisteo he married Jennifer Kruzicke who survives and resides in Canisteo. Bert was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corp. proudly serving our country during the Vietnam War from 1969-71. He enjoyed farming and working closely with the area Amish community. Bert was an avid NASCAR fan favoring the racing team of Kasey Kahne and enjoyed country music especially the "old" country music artists. One of his favorite memories was making a trip to the Grand Ole Opry, in Nashville, TN. In addition to his wife Jennifer of Canisteo, Bert is survived by four daughters; Michelle Galayda of Conemaugh, Pa. Annette (Scott) Mochol of Canisteo, Vicki (Chris) Swiatowy of Lockport and Megan Cratsley of Canisteo, two sons: Jonathan Gritzmacher of Cheektowaga and Albert "Eddie" Allen of Olcott and nine grandchildren. Bert is also survived by a brother Larry Eckler of Wilson and two very close friends Darryl (Lucinda) Howell of Howard and Morton (Sandy) Frost of Maine. There will be no prior calling hours. A memorial service with Military Honors will take place Thursday, April 6 at 2:00 pm at the Canisteo Wesleyan Church, Greenwood St. in Canisteo, with Rev. Donald Maynard officiating. Memorial contributions in Bert's name may be made to Care First 3805 Meads Creek Rd, Painted Post, NY 14870.