Michael “Mike” Bruce Crawford Sr.

Michael “Mike” Bruce Crawford Sr. of Beallsville, Ohio, formerly of Morrisville, New York, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loved ones, on Friday, July 31, 2026.

Mike will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, brother, son, uncle, friend, and his favorite title of all, “Papa.” Mike proudly spent four years serving our country in the United States Army, including two deployments during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. The loyalty, strength, resilience, and unwavering determination Mike demonstrated throughout his military service were only a few of the many qualities those fortunate enough to know him admired most.

While stationed at Fort Polk, Louisiana, Mike met his wife and best friend, Catherine E. Aschenbrenner Crawford. What began with Mike tirelessly searching for a new movie to watch blossomed into a life centered on love, devotion, and an abundance of laughter.

Mike spent well over 20 years as a highly respected 3D CAD designer, using his quick thinking and problem-solving abilities to tackle challenges that few others could solve. His ability to find solutions to problems that had never been solved before was a direct reflection of his intelligence, determination, and the unique way he viewed the world. He brought that same passion and dedication to everything he did, including cheering on his favorite football team, the Buffalo Bills.

Beyond his military service and professional accomplishments, nothing in the world brought Mike more joy than being called “Papa” by Kayden, age 10 and Kody, age 6. Mike had a remarkable ability to make everyone around him feel supported, valued, and never alone, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Mike was a proud patriot with a deep love for his country and never lost the sense of duty and pride instilled in him through his military service. His respect for the freedoms he so bravely defended and his unwavering love for the United States of America remained guiding principles throughout his life.

There was not a single problem or fear that Mike would not face head-on. He was always willing to lend a hand and never hesitated to put others before himself. Whether offering guidance, solving a difficult problem, or simply being there when someone needed him, Mike left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path. His legacy of dedication, love, service, and integrity will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, Bruce Crawford, also by his grandparents, Fred and Hazel Marconi, and George and Eve Lerner.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Cathy; his son, Michael; his daughter, Kayla; his mother and step-father, Cindy and Lynn Fettrow; his sisters, Lisa (Joe) Presti, Jaime (Bruce) Alderfer; his brother, Brian Crawford; his grandsons, Kayden and Kody; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews; also his family-by-heart, Rusty and Kathy Lucas, Todd and Jennifer Roher, and the Patch, Lucas, and Roher families.

In keeping with Mike’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service. To celebrate his life, on Saturday, September 12 beginning at 12 noon, family and friends are invited to attend a memorial gathering at American Legion Post 768, 52651 Broad Street, Beallsville, Ohio at which time those in attendance will be invited to honor Mike’s memory by sharing their memories. Full Military Honors by Beallsville American Legion Post #768 will be presented at the conclusion of the memorial ceremony.

A reception will then be held at the Legion where family and friends may continue to honor Mike’s life with stories, memories, good food, and fellowship.

To RSVP or if you have any questions, please contact: cfettrow25@gmail.com

Honoring Mike’s giving spirit, his family requests that in lieu of flowers and keepsakes, memorial contributions may be made to Beallsville American Legion Post #768, 52651 Broad Street, Beallsville, Ohio 43716 or to Beallsville Rally for Life, c/o Kathy Rees, 46270 State Route 556, Beallsville, Ohio 43716.

Arrangements by Wilson Funeral Home.