Donald David Crawford

A man of faith with a strong work ethic, an ever ready helping hand, and a love of God, country and family - these leave an indelible mark on those who knew Donald "Don" David Crawford. Don passed away on September 26, 2022 in his home in Ashland, Ohio after a long illness. He was born in Homestead, PA on February 11, 1937 to Donald and Grace Crawford who moved the family to Ohio when Don was in elementary school. In 1956 he graduated from Sebring McKinely High School where he met the love of his life, Marilyn McCausland whom he married in 1957. Although he loved playing football, he knew he wanted to work with his hands so he studied to become a master carpenter rather than accept a full scholarship to The Ohio State University. This decision bode him well as he spent his life using his meticulous woodworking skills and talents in private and corporate construction, building homes and churches, renovating many a local project as well as constructing wooden toys for his children and grandchildren.
As a member of the Sebring United Presbyterian Church, Don loved to arrive early on Sunday mornings to listen to the church organist practice for the service. Those hymns were a source of worship and comfort to him in the past few months.
As a lifetime member of the Beloit Ruritan Club, he delighted in serving the community in various capacities, from storm clean ups to barbecues to fundraising for college scholarships. He volunteered with Marilyn to tutor students in reading at Beloit Elementary School. As an antique vehicle enthusiast, he restored numerous cars and trucks over the years and got a kick out of driving Homecoming queens and others in local parades. He was an officer in the Retirees Club, a group of retired carpenters and tradesmen along with their spouses. As an honorary member of Marilyn's Bouffants Club, he enjoyed the camaraderie of a tight knit group of high school pals. Don was quite fond of food and fellowship with friends.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Gracie, and his wife Marilyn whose cherry pies he sorely missed. None of his children could quite get her recipe exactly right, much to their chagrin.
He leaves behind his children and grandchildren with whom he relished sharing ice cream cones, fishing trips to the local pond, and visits on the swing. They are children Laura Fitch (Thomas), Kathleen Allman (James), and Donald Crawford. Grandchildren include Claire Haas (Jordan) and son Finn, David Allman, Madeline Fitch, Meredith Fitch, Lindsey Crawford, Olivia Dubin (Addison), Sam Crawford, Maria Greier (Ryan) and Zachary(Let) Bush. Also surviving are sister-in-law Florence McCausland, nephews Kris and Kevin McCausland and niece Jaime Cooke.
The family would like to thank the many caregivers and friends who were so kind and supportive over the years. Don would like you to remember him every time you savor a piece of homemade cherry pie.

A private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Organ Fund at the Sebring United Presbyterian Church, one of the many facilities Don used his carpentry skills to help construct. Friends and family may send condolences and sign the guest register online at www.grfuneralhome.com.