On Tuesday, July 6, 2021, Chris Cranston visited the Evergreen Cemetery in Hot Springs, South Dakota to celebrate the lives of our family. They include:
Bill Cranston (Chris’s Father)
Doreen Cranston (Chris’s Mother)
Bess Melby (Chris’s Grandmother)
Ole Melby (Chris’s Step-Grandfather)
Chris (Doc) Cranston (Chris’s Grandfather)
Marian Painter (Chris’s Aunt)
Preston Painter (Chris’s Uncle)
Helen Peterson (Chris’s Aunt)
Paul Peterson (Chris’s Step-Uncle)
This was NOT a “sad occasion.” It was a celebration.
Along with paying proper respects, Chris and his cousin (Charlie Jett) linked together by text as Chris made the rounds.
To have some fun, something should be put into the proper perspective. HELEN LOVED BLACKBERRY BRANDY!!
So, he brought along a bottle of blackberry brandy and he and Charlie toasted the family with smiles and laughter. Chris, at Charlie’s suggestion, left the empty bottle on Helen’s gravestone.
The photos below document the celebration.













Mike Davies
Chris – great idea; I know Helen loved the blackberry brandy!!