Matthew “Matt” Steven Crane, 45, of Brighton, Illinois, passed away on Friday morning, September 25, 2026, at Mayo Clinic Hospital, surrounded by his family.
He was born April 27, 1981, in Alton, Illinois, the son of Toni Link and Steven and Ann Crane. On October 3, 2009, he married Amanda Gallup, and together they built a life centered around family, laughter, and love.
He was a devoted husband to Amanda, a loving father to Emma and Jace, and a very proud Papa to Amelia and Hudson. His children and grandchildren were among his greatest joys, and he never missed an opportunity to spoil them or remind them just how deeply they were loved.
Matt graduated from Southwestern High School in 2000. He worked at Boeing for 18 years. In his free time, he loved working on cars, tackling projects around the house, and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone who needed help. He will always be remembered for his kind heart, generosity, and willingness to help others.
Some of his favorite memories were made camping with his family and spending time out on the boat. And if there was a slot machine nearby, there was a pretty good chance you could find him there, too.
Matt also loved his dogs, Roxy and Daisy. Daisy held an especially important place in his heart. The two spent countless hours taking naps together, and she was his loyal protector.
Matt is survived by his wife, Amanda; his children, Emma (Caden Schroeder) and Jace; his grandchildren, Amelia and Hudson; his parents, Toni Link and Steven and Ann Crane; his grandmother, Dixie Crane; his siblings, Brad Crane, Patrick Blumenberg (Lauren), and Morgan Schiller (Brendan); his mother-in-law, Vickie Gallup; his brother-in-law, Keith Gallup (Heather); and many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Kenny Gallup; his grandfather, David Crane; and his grandparents, Joe and Bobbie Lafferty.
Matt lived his life to the fullest and loved his wife and family with everything he had. Having personally received the gift of organ donation, Matt was a firm believer in its importance. His life was a testament to just how meaningful that gift can be—the gift of more time and memories with the people you love. He leaves behind a family who knew, without question, just how much he loved them.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, October 10, at Community Christian Church, 2345 Union School Road, Alton, Illinois. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., with the service beginning at 11:30 a.m.
Memorials can be made to honor Matt to 5As-Alton Area Animal Aid Association.