Gerald Robert Crawford

Gerald (Jerry) Robert Crawford, age 52, of Toledo passed away peacefully Saturday morning February 17, 2024. Born July 21st, 1971 in Toledo, Ohio to Robert and Linda (McKinley) Crawford. He was a 1989 graduate of Whitmer High School and just a few short years later began his almost 24 year career in law enforcement as a Deputy Sheriff, with the Lucas County Sheriff's Department, serving as a road Deputy, and then as a Corrections Officer at the Lucas County Jail. Jerry was admired for his dedication to serving and protecting those around him both on and off the job.

Gerald was a sucker for speed and it started from a young age, racing BMX, knee boarding up at the lake, dirt bike racing, and of course his all-around love of cars. Drag racing his 1969 charger at Milan drag way, and driving it all over the US to the National Dodge Charger meets. He had the personality and sense of humor to make friends no matter the situation, and a laugh that was infectious to everyone around him. Jerry was a dedicated amateur radio operator. Always a man of details, he studied for and attained an Amateur Extra License (KC8LBO), and he helped many people start their journey in the hobby. He also connected with countless people all over the world using only radio waves. A man of many stories, and adventures that had you hanging on his every word. Gerald also loved music, playing his guitars and listening to different genres while teaching himself to play new songs by ear. He loved his family, and will be missed so very much.

Gerald is survived by his children, Jessica Crawford (Ted), and Connor Crawford; Grandsons Brayden-Lee Crawford, Ronan Beaman, and Atlas Beaman; Parents Robert and Linda Crawford; Siblings Tina Kerr, and Sheri Schweighart (Robert); Niece and Nephews Sydney Kerr (Brenda), Lucas Kerr (Baylee), and Trey Schweighart (Maddy). He is preceded in death by his grandparents Gerald and Ruby McKinley, and Lloyd and Margaret Crawford; and Uncle Terry McKinley.


Gerald's Memorial will be held Thursday, March 21st from 4-8pm at St. Michael's Lutheran Church 5790 W. Temperance Rd. Ottawa Lake MI 49267.

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