ROCHELLE – RL “Rick” Crawford, 66, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2018, at Serenity Hospice and Home in Oregon, with his wife of 46 years by his side. He now soars with the birds he loved watching. A bald eagle's visit on the morning of his passing gave his family comfort that he has been reborn pain free and at peace. He was a strong, proud and loving husband, father, and grandfather who enjoyed his time with grandkids and working in his shop with wood or at his blacksmith's forge. Rick loved to show others how to imagine, create and build. There was always something new he could explore.
Rick was born Nov. 15, 1952 in Salina, Kan., the son of Jack and Pat (Johannes) Crawford. He married Jean Cernoch on Nov. 23, 1972 in Elgin.
Rick is survived by his wife, Jean of Rochelle; two children, Amanda (Dan) Powell of Miamisburg, Ohio and Erik (Heather) Crawford of Rochelle; four grandchildren, Logan Crawford, Maycie Powell, Alexis Crawford, and Marco Powell; his mother, Pat Crawford of Marengo; two brothers, Jerry (Sandie) Crawford of Hampshire, and Steve (Jeanne) Crawford of Lake in the Hills; and three sisters, Julie (Steve) Meyer of Carol Stream, Rita (Jim) Feltes of Bristol, Ind., and Stacey (Jim) Karr of Marengo; and numerous nieces, nephews and grandnieces. Also "puppy girl" Bella who loved to sleep close by.
Rick is preceded in death by his father, Jack Crawford.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that your gifts go to Serenity Hospice & Home in Oregon, so that Rick’s memory may live on in their service to others.
A celebration of life will take place summer 2019. Family and friends will be notified of details at a later date. Cremation care has been provided by the Unger-Horner Funeral Home, Rochelle.