William “Bill” Crabtree, age 63, of Jackson, Ohio went home to his Lord and Savior at 12 p.m. on Friday, January 3, 2014 at Riverside Hospital following and extended illness. He was born February 26, 1950 to Robert and Grace Crabtree, who preceded him in death along with a sister, Martha Joanne.
He is survived by one sister, Mary Finfrock of Spencerville, Ohio; three nieces, Teresa (Bruce) Perkins of Spencerville, Patty (John) Nichols of Willshire, Ohio, and April (Kevin) Goeckerman of Hollan, Ohio; a very special cousin, Tonya (Toni) Crabtree-Favorite of Kettering, Ohio; several great-nieces and great-nephews; great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews.
Bill was a graduate of the Jackson High School Class of 1968, after which he joined the United States Marine Corp where he proudly served from 1968 to 1970. He then became a coal miner at Meigs Mine #2 for 28 years. After his retirement, he became an EMT of Vinton County EMS. Bill also served as an Auxiliary Deputy Sheriff for Jackson, Ohio. He belonged to Christ in Christian Union Church of Jackson, Ohio. He was also a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, life member of Jackson Elks Lodge, life member of Amvets Post #84, Loyal Order of the Moose, member of Franklin Valley Golf Club, and a member of the Browns Football Backers Worldwide. In addition, he was also an avid golfer, and a huge supporter of Oak Hill basketball teams. He enjoyed playing cards and bowling as well.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 10, 2014 at 11 a.m. at Lewis & Gillum Funeral Home of Jackson, Ohio with Pastor Bob Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Fairmount Cemetery. Friends may call on Thursday, January 9, 2014 from 2 to 8 p.m. and from 10 to 11 a.m. on Friday January 10, 2014 at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made to The American Heart Association, P.O. Box 15120, Chicago, IL 60693 or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.lewisgillumfuneralhomes.com.