Thomas F. CrookLANCASTER: Thomas Franklin Crook, 87 of Lancaster, passed away on November 21, at his home. Tom was born on January, 4, 1929 to Earl and Gail Kerns Crook in Lancaster. He was a skilled tradesman for Doid Kerns and Sons, Anchor Hocking and Haning's. Tom was a veteran of the Korean War serving as an Army Corpsman. He and his wife, Clara (Joos) were married for 56 years enjoying dancing, reading, their home, children, grandchildren, and more importantly, each other.Tom loved the outdoors and nature. He was an avid gardener and got great joy from watching the birds flock to the bird feeders in his back yard. His love of the outdoors was fulfilled by working for Metro Parks as a park ranger. Tom eagerly volunteered for the organizations he cared about, Post 11 of the American Legion, West after School Program, The Lancaster Festival, and Olivedale. He is survived by his loving family, son Jeff (Chris) of Sugar Grove, son John (Maureen Giesken) of Cincinnati, daughter Jo Anne (Tim) Welsh of Lancaster, son Jay (Della) of South Carolina, and daughter Jeanne Whitmore of Utah and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, sisters Nancy (Tom) Chamberlain, Marilyn (Don) Corey and nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his wife, Clara, his brother Jim Crook and daughter-in-law Penny Crook.A special thanks to Tom's cribbage buddies, Ruth Watson and Rick Schneider. Playing cribbage with them brightened his final days.Caring Cremation has already taken place. Friends may pay their respects at Sheridan Funeral Home, Friday, December 2, 2-4pm and 6-8pm. The family will share memories of Tom at 7:30pm. To send an online condolence and sign guestbook, please visit www.sheridanfuneralhome.net and click obituaries.