Wilford S. Cronk, 85, of Wiscasset, passed away at his residence on March 25, with his family by his side. He was born in Blanchard on March 22, 1928, the son of Oscar E. and Susie P. (Eastler) Cronk. Wilford and his family lived in several small towns when he was a young boy, until 1942 when they moved to Wiscasset which he has called home ever since.
Wilford joined the U.S. 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 entrepreneur. He was always thinking of things that people wanted. 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. In 1960 he and a few friends bought a plane and learned how to fly.
Wilford was a member of the Episcopal Church in Wiscasset, the Masons, and the Lions Club and was Shriner.
Wilford is predeceased by his loving wife, Verne Cronk who passed away in 1996; daughter, Terri L. Cronk; and brothers, his twin Milford and brother Raymond.
He leaves behind his children, Jacqueline Bailey, Wilford S. Cronk Jr., and David L. Cronk; sister, Evelyn Grover; and brother, Oscar Cronk; grandchildren, Kevin Morris, Lisa Sampson, Shawn Bergeron, Damin Pinkham, and Cory Cronk; and five 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.
