Robert Crawford

Bob Crawford, 83, of Sand Creek passed away Thursday, August 30, 2012, at home. He was born on July 27, 1929, in Michigan City, Indiana, the son of Dwight & Violet (Cover) Crawford.

Bob left rural Indiana, after marrying the love of his life, Frances Lynn Parker, in 1950. Together they raised a family of four children while working hard to build a good life for their family. Bob thrived as an office equipment salesman; a job that played well to his open, friendly personality. Moving his family from Elkhart, Indiana, to Ypsilanti, Michigan, in 1967, to seek a better education for his special needs daughter, Bob again put his family first by changing careers at the age of 40. Bob spent the next 20 years of his life at Ford Motor Company, sacrificing the freedom of his life as a salesman for the security ofhis family. Retired from Ford Motor Bob happily spent his final working years back doing what he loved as a salesman for Gene Butman Ford. A selfless man, Bob's generous spirit was spread to many. His home had many a "guest" helped along their way. His wallet opened for many a person "worse off" and more than one missionary was assisted by a portion of hispaychecks. To this day, many disabled benefit from Bob and Frances' efforts to change the public perception of the mentally challenged among us. Bob indeed cast his bread upon the water and leaves us all that knew him richer for his example in kindness and devotion.

Preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Frances Lynn Crawford, and his brother William Crawford. Survived by his four children, David, John (Susan), Kathy, and Julie; "adopted" son, John Lee; 10 grandchildren; 7 great grand children; brother, Larry (Kay); sister, Virginia; many nieces and nephews; his good friend Bill Lamp; and many others who will miss his smile and ever present kindness.

Funeral service will be Friday, September 7, 2012, at 1:00 PM at the Eagle Funeral Home-Charles Fink Chapel in Morenci. Burial will follow at the Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci. There will be a visitation on Thursday from 5 until 7:30 PM.