Robert W. Crawford

COLEBROOK — Robert W. Crawford, 76, passed away early on Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2015, at the Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital in Colebrook, with his family by his side. He was born in Pittsburg on April 27, 1939, a son to the late Orrie and Doris (Cook) Crawford. He attended schools in Pittsburg and Colebrook, and was a 1958 graduate of Colebrook Academy. Bob began his working career as a traveling insurance salesman, then worked for a time at Ethan Allen. A bit later, he offered to help as a truck driver for two weeks on the construction crew building the Wilderness Ski Area for Neil Tillotson in the mid-60s. Fifteen years later, Bob left Tillotson Rubber to operate his own over-the-road trucking business for the next 18 years. He later worked for Wausau Carriers, went back to Tillotson Rubber for a period of time, and then worked in his retirement for Sheldon Gray and Bond Auto. Bob loved outdoor activities, especially driving the back roads of the north country, fishing and being at camp on Lake Francis, snowmobiling, and he loved to visit over a cup of coffee with his friends and neighbors. He served his community as a member of the Colebrook Fire Department for more than 20 years. Bob was close to his family and grandchildren, and enjoyed having them nearby. He leaves behind a daughter, Laurie Howe of Colebrook; a son, Ronnie Crawford and fiancée, Pam Riendeau Jones, of Shippensburg, Penn.; a brother, Edwin Crawford and his wife Jean of Colebrook; a sister, Ellen Finley and husband John of Colorado; eight grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; and his long-time companion, Carol Perkins of Columbia. Robert is preceded in death by his loving wife of 41 years, Alice (Gould) Crawford in 2001, and a son, Michael Crawford in 2008. Calling hours will be on Sunday, Dec. 27, 2015, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Jenkins & Newman Funeral Home in Colebrook. A graveside service and burial will occur at a later date in the spring of 2016 in the Colebrook Village Cemetery, of which notice will be given. Expressions of sympathy in memory of Mr. Crawford may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Condolences may be offered to the family on-line by going to www.jenkinsnewman.com. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Jenkins & Newman Funeral Home, Colebrook, NH.

Robert W. Crawford

April 27, 1939 - December 22, 2015