Retired for 30 years now, Croan still won't sit still

Thursday, June 2, 2011
Fillmore resident Charles Thomas Croan, who celebrated 30 years of retirement on Tuesday, displays some of the awards he received through his career with the Chrysler Corp.

FILLMORE -- It's another 90-degree day in Fillmore but if you were to pull onto the Croan property, you would probably find Charles Thomas Croan climbing into his tractor.

While many men who have been retired for as long as Croan might be sitting in their living room watching TV in the comfort of air conditioning, you would find Croan heading off to the hay fields for the afternoon.

May 31 marked the 30th anniversary of Croan's retirement from Chrysler Corp. But even though he's 82 years old, Croan is still going strong. He is still active on his farm, with his family and in his hobbies.

Charles Croan still farms despite being retired for 30 years.

Though he's been retired for three decades now, Croan continues to do all of the things he loves. He has farmed for most of his life and continues to do so with his youngest son Tom.

He lives next door to both of his sons, Tom and Gary, and enjoys spending time with his family and grandchildren.

Asked about his favorite part of retirement, Croan replied humorously, "Well, I'll tell you the worst part instead. That was the day when I quit drawing a check!"

When he's not farming, Croan enjoys many activities that keep him busy and outdoors. He frequents yard sales and the Croy's Creek Traders Fair. He loves to garden, and cans many of the vegetables he grows. He is even known amongst his family for his great salsa. He is also an avid deer hunter.

While his 83rd birthday is approaching next February, that does not seem to bother Croan. With his energy, humor and love for life, it appears the Fillmore man could easily continue enjoying his hobbies and farming for years to come.

Croan served three years in the United States Air Force, and in 1950 he began working at the Chrysler Corp. foundry at Indianapolis. There he worked in the pattern shop, repairing patterns until his retirement in 1981.

Croan has also been a member of the Freemasons for 50 years. In 1963 he married Etta McNew, who passed away in 2006. He was remarried in 2007 to Brenda Totten. They currently reside in Fillmore where you are likely to find Croan out working in his garden.

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  • This is a very GOOD human interest story. Cudos to Mr. Croan for staying so active. This is the best way to stay healthy and it keeps your mind active too!

    I noticed that the article was written by an intern (Andrew Kelly). You did a great job! Very professional. I hope to see more articles from you in the future!

    -- Posted by chicken on Thu, Jun 2, 2011, at 11:13 AM
  • I'm writing in response to the very well written article Andrew Kelly has written about my husband Charlie. Andrew, it was so nice to have met you and to also know that you just gratuated with Charlie's granddaughter, Samantha Croan. Charlie and I was in attendace at the Class of 2011 Graduation at South Putnam High School, just last weekend. Keep up the good work. You will go far in Journalism.

    Thank you again for the great article. Charlie was thrilled that you did such a wonderful job.

    Brenda Croan

    -- Posted by Brenda Croan on Thu, Jun 2, 2011, at 12:53 PM
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