John “Snake” Crain, age 75, of Salem, passed away on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana.
He was born on May 26, 1951, in Kinmundy, Illinois, the son of Carl and Reva (Reynolds) Crain.
He married Ann Barbee on June 27, 1971, and she preceded him in death on May 31, 2019, after a long and happy marriage. On June 6, 2020, John married Jean Cuthbertson in Salem, Illinois. Together they shared a loving marriage and many wonderful memories.
John retired as a locomotive engineer with Union Pacific Railroad after many years of dedicated service. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing, and he also loved spending time on the golf course. He was a member of Freedom Church in Salem and the Salem Country Club. Known affectionately by family and friends as “Snake,” John will be remembered for his friendly and ornery personality, love of the outdoors, and the many friendships he made throughout his life.
He is survived by his wife, Jean Crain of Salem; son, Eric Crain; stepson, Bryan McIntosh and wife, Shelli; and his grandchildren, Seth, Lili, Kara and Kaci Crain, and Steven and Jacob McIntosh.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Reva Crain, and his first wife, Ann Crain.
A memorial service for John “Snake” Crain will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, July 13, 2026, at Freedom Church in Salem, with Pastor Dallas Bear officiating. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service at the church. Memorial donations may be made toward planting a tree at the Salem Country Club in Snake’s memory. Donations will be accepted at the church or at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem. Online condolences can be left at www.CrouseFH.com
