Wilford S. Cronk, 85, of Shady Lane, Wiscasset, died at his residence on Monday, March 25, 2013, with his family by his side.  He was born in Blanchard, Maine on March 22, 1928, the son of Oscar E. and Sussie P. (Eastland) Cronk.  Wilford and his family lived in several small towns when he was a young boy. In 1942, they moved to Wiscasset, and he has called it home ever since.

Wilford joined the United States Navy at the age of 18, to serve his country, something that he was very proud of.  Upon his discharge he returned home, to Wiscasset, where he married his soul mate Verne Farmer.

Wilford was a self-employed adventurer.  He was always thinking of things that people wanted.  “I can do that,” was his thinking.  He started in construction and excavating, expanding the business as more trucks were added to his fleet. In 1964 he broke ground for the Wiscasset Speedway and opened for his first race in 1968.  He was very proud of his accomplishment.  He operated the speedway with great pride until 1993 when he sold it.

Wilford was a family man, hunting and fishing, which were his passions, was a way for him and his boys to bond, and he always looked forward to spending time with his grandchildren. He loved spending time with his wife wintering in Florida. Although he was a Navy man, he used to say “My eyes are in the sky.”  In 1960 he and a few friends bought a plane and learned how to fly.  He will be sadly missed by all those who loved him.

Wilford was a member of the Episcopal Church in Wiscasset, a member of the Masons, a Shriner and a member of the Lions club.  

Wilford is predeceased by his loving wife Verne Cronk who passed away in 1996, a daughter, Terri L. Cronk and two brothers, his twin Milford and brother Raymond.

He leaves behind his three children, Jacqueline Bailey, Wilford S. Cronk Jr. and David L. Cronk; a sister Evelyn Grover and a brother, Oscar Cronk; 5 grandchildren, Kevin Morris, Lisa Sampson, Shawn Bergeron, Damin Pinkham and Cory Cronk; and 5 great grandchildren.

At Wilford’s request there will be no visiting hours.  A graveside service will be held at a later date.

To share your thoughts and condolences with the family, please visit www.desmondfuneralhomes.com/.