Obituaries

Gary Glenn Crawford, age 84, of Harrisville, Michigan, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on March 30, 1941, in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, to Glenn and Marion (Wilson) Crawford.

Gary grew up in Pickford, Michigan, where he spent most of his life until 1986, when he and his family relocated to Gaylord, Michigan. He attended Northern Michigan University before beginning his career with General Telephone Company, where he dedicated twenty-nine years of service.

On October 20, 1962, Gary married the love of his life, Karlene Rae Materna, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Sault Ste. Marie. Together they built a life filled with devotion, laughter, and a deep love for their children.

Gary will be remembered for his humor, warmth, and the way he could fill a room with conversation. A natural storyteller, he loved connecting with others and especially treasured his Friday phone calls with his grandchildren. He was always ready for a good drink and a spirited game of cribbage.

Gary loved watching “ball games”, always bringing his trademark humor and competitive spirit to everything he did. He also enjoyed pheasant hunting, spending many of his wedding anniversaries on memorable hunting trips. He was also known for his impeccable travel-planning skills, armed with his trusty Rand McNally, he could plot the perfect route for anyone headed anywhere.

He was a member of the Gaylord Eagles Club and attended Family Heritage Baptist Church in Harrisville. His faith, friendships, and family were the pillars of his life.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife of sixty-three years, Karlene; children, Steven (Cynthia) Crawford, Gary Randall (Helen) Crawford, and Kari (John) Smith; grandchildren, Ashton (D.J.) Faber, Stephanie (Colin) Savage, Glenn (Carlena) Crawford, Cassandra (Cole Sitzberger) Crawford, Daniel Crawford, Jake (Krystle) Crawford, and Luke (Jennifer) Crawford; and fourteen great-grandchildren, all of whom he cherished dearly; and sister, Joyce Henderson of Sault Ste. Marie.

He was preceded in death by his father, Glenn Earl Crawford; mother, Marion Janette (Wilson) Crawford Clark; brother, Lawrence Dean Crawford; and sister, Linda Faye Crawford.

Visitation will be held on November 28, 2025 at 1:30 PM at Family Life Funeral Homes, 24549 S. M-129, Pickford, MI, 49774, with the Funeral Service to follow beginning at 2:30 PM.

James Bullis will be officiating.

Gary’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to those he held dear. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.