Obituary for Carol L Crawford
Carol Lynn Crawford, age 77, passed away on Tuesday, May 22 at the U of M hospital in Ann Arbor. Carol faced the struggles of her long term illnesses with strength and a sense of humor that she carried to the end. She's survived by a sister, Marlene Freitag, a brother Don Stauffer, and her sons Chuck Traxler and David Traxler. She was preceded in death by her infant son Mark, Brother Dick, and her parents Ralph and Loretta Stauffer. Carol worked her ass off her whole life, starting on her parent’s farm; her dad said that 'Carol could do the work of any man'. She raised a family, and did all she could to give her kids a proper upbringing. She always planted a garden, and loved deer hunting and the venison it provided. Carol was frugal and resourceful, and never let anything go to waste. Carol worked in several manufacturing plants in the area, such as West Branch Tube, Standish Products and Dura Automotive. She was a kitchen cook for a time at the White Star bar, and tackled every job with enthusiasm and energy. When Carol retired, she still kept her garden and her chickens, and worked outdoors all she could. She enjoyed woodworking, and put together a small workshop where she could build things like birdhouses and birdfeeders. She loved watching and feeding the birds, as did her mother. She enjoyed the sport and camaraderie she found playing Women's softball. But she was never happier than when she had a fishing pole in her hand. Carol was loyal and supportive of her friends and family. She was always up for an adventure, whether it was a fall color tour with her friends, or paddling a double bed down the Tittabawassee River in the 'Anything that Floats' competition. She was a strong, independent and tough little woman, and would tell you exactly what she thought, regardless if you were a close family member or a biker in the White Star bar. Carol had a tender heart, she wrote poetry, and had a soft spot for animals, especially those that needed some TLC. Many times she would find a baby bird fallen from the nest and nurse it with an eyedropper until it could fend for itself. Carol hated funerals, 'I don't want people looking at me if I'm not looking back.' An informal memorial will be held for Carol at her home on Ridge Road on Saturday afternoon July 21st so that family and friends can gather to celebrate her life and share stories. All are welcome. Anyone wishing to make a charitable donation in Carol's memory could consider the Alzheimer's Association in Chicago, IL. Or take in a stray or abused animal and give it a loving home.
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Cemetery Details
Location
Sunset Valley Crematory
210 AuSable
Bay City, MI 48706
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