Major Richard T. Crain, U.S. Air Force retired, 87, of Dawsonville, died Monday, April 6, 2009.

After his retirement from the Air Force in 1963, Major Crain went on to graduate from Southern Technical Institute at age 43. He then worked for the City of Atlanta, as a heating and ventilating inspector achieving a second retirement.

He later became a member of Athens Boat Club and built his final earthly home on Lake Lanier.

He loved people and enjoyed restoring broken electronic equipment.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

His wife, Jeanne B. Crain; and, a son, James G. Crain, preceded him in death.

Survivors include, his daughters, Jane G. Mabry, Shirley W. Workman, both of Dawsonville, Lisa G. Crain of Marietta; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; various other relatives also survive.

An informal graveside service was held at 2:30 p.m. April 9 at Cherokee Memorial Park in Canton.

Bearden Funeral Home of Dawsonville was in charge of the arrangements.