Ronald Chapman Crawford, formerly of Vashon Island, died at his home in Excelsior Springs, Mo., on Nov. 20, 2004. He was 82 years old.

Mr. Crawford was born Oct. 30, 1922, in Lincoln, Neb., and grew up in Fayette, Iowa. After a successful career of 30 years as a carpenter, he attended Kirkwood Community College and received his AA degree. He went on to Upper Iowa University where he received his bachelor of arts degree and received his master’s degree at Iowa State University. He then attended New Mexico State University where he worked on his PhD. He taught at Upper Iowa University and the University of New Mexico.

He abandoned the field of education to return to the construction trade. He moved to Vashon Island, where he was a successful remodeling contractor. Upon his retirement, he moved with his wife Carolyn to Kansas City, Mo. They moved to Excelsior Springs when Carolyn retired this year.

Survivors include his wife of 22 years, Carolyn Kay Crawford, eight children and their spouses, Gary and Evie Crawford, Dale and Katreena Crawford, Sheryl and Jim Sorenson, Ronald and Rosemary Crawford, Rebecca and Bill Barlow, Billee and Ed Molarte and Dr. Ruthe Crawford. Additional survivors include 21 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren.

Mr. Crawford was cremated at his request. A memorial service will be planned at a time to be determined later.

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