Gary Steven Crawford passed away Monday, April 4, 2011 in Aurora, Colorado where he has lived for the past 11 years. Gary was a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend.
He was born to Marion and Vernetta Trier Crawford on February 4, 1954 in Washington, Iowa. He graduated from Columbus Community High School in 1972 and went on to become a food and beverage director. He spent the most treasured years of his life in his favorite city of New Orleans. In 1999 he retired and moved to Colorado where he battled serious medical problems with a strength beyond compare. He thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his family and volunteering for the USO and the Ronald McDonald House in Aurora. His favorite pastimes included cooking gourmet meals and entertaining friends and family. He was also a master decorator and designer, always anxious to help coordinate his family’s new homes. He has enjoyed staying in touch with friends and family on Facebook. He kept everyone entertained with his quick wit and ornery smile, something that will be sorely missed by everyone lucky enough to know him.
Gary is survived by his mother, Vernetta of Washington, Iowa, one sister, Phyllis Wagar of Aurora, Colorado, one brother, Bob and wife Brenda Crawford of Riverside, Iowa, a half sister, Margaret and husband Frank Stout of Des Moines, Iowa, three nieces, Wendy and husband Scott Miller of San Diego, California, Tressa and Sager of Riverside, Iowa, and Jamie and husband Jessie Hall of North Liberty, Iowa, four nephews, Eric Wagar of San Jose, California, Jayson and wife Lynette Crawford of Knoxville, Iowa, Cody Crawford of San Francisco, California and Jason Sager of Chicago, Illinois. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends, all who loved him and will miss him dearly.
Preceding Gary in death was his father, Marion Crawford and both sets of grandparents.
Gary’s greatest wish throughout his illness has been that when he passed on to a better life, those left behind would celebrate his life rather than mourn his death. This celebration will take place on 1:00 P.M. Saturday, April 9, 2011 at St. James Catholic Church in Washington with Fr. Troy Richmond officiating. Burial will follow at the West Chester Cemetery. Visitation will be held Friday, April 8, 2011 from 4 to 7PM at the Beatty Funeral Home in Washington.
In lieu of flowers the family prefers memorial contributions be designated to USO or the Ronald McDonald House.