J.C. Crawford, a man open to the opportunities and adventures life offers, left this world May 1, 2009 after a long succession of health problems, which he contended with the same quiet grace and calm that was his nature. J.C. was born November 25, 1928, drawing first breath in a small dwelling close by the Grand River, not far from McFall in Gentry County, Missouri. He spent his life on the farmstead in his primary occupation as farmer and rancher. He had a wide range of other interests, the most important his 60-year marriage to Carlene Ames, of rural Worth County. With usual foresight, he managed to combine his wedding anniversary with Christmas-for maximum shopping efficiency. He served during the Korean War in Yokahama, Japan on assignment to the Port Harbormaster, which coordinated military supply ships. A graduate of Albany High School, he played all sports and was particularly skillful in football. He passed with regrets an athletic scholarship to a major college; preferring to assist his father in farming operations. He remained competitive and active in community affairs. He entered the National Plowing Contest and won the Missouri Level Land Title in 1948. Meeting President Truman was a highlight, perhaps a harbinger of his support of Carlene's Democrat party activities, which were local, state and national. Content to play second fiddle, he was usually introduced as "Carlene's husband." J.C. had a strong interest in Boy Scouts and several family members attained the rank of Eagle Scout. He was on the Albany R-III School Board for 12 years, which included a term as President. He served several terms as board member of the Gentry County Farm Service Administration and served 12 years as board member of The District Rural Electric Cooperative. He dedicated more than 60 years to Masonic and Eastern Star activities, which included several terms as Worshipful Master. He also supported the local V.F.W. Chapter. In no particular order, J.C. loved cards (you pick'em), dogs of any breed, preferably Labs, and a "nip" in warm, cold or any kind of weather. J.C. had a passion for hunting and fishing. The Crawford/McGee Annual Fish Fry was a legendary event. Attendees numbered in the dozens. One visitor, Warren Hearnes, then Missouri Governor, stepped right up to the catfish and hush-puppies. An outstanding host to the many relatives and friends that visited the farm, J.C. and Carlene were ingenious at creating entertainment for visitors of any size or age. There were pickup trips, fishing, wading, and farm exploring. Invitations were quickly accepted, knowing fun and excitement awaited. J.C. was a skillful hunter of game and always successful in finding morel mushrooms in local nooks and crannies. For many years, he made an annual trek to Wyoming for elk and deer. His dogs competed for his affection. They were always given "front seat" privileges in the pickup. Mindy, Chocolate Lab and current favorite, will mourn his passing. During his long medical absences, J.C. often communicated with Mindy by phone, to her obvious delight. Preceding him in death were his parents Curtis and Janet (Allen) Crawford, sisters Opal Mays and Joan Custer, grandson Luke Crawford and granddaughter Lacy Crawford. Surviving family members are Carlene, sons Mark and Bryon (Beth), grandchildren Levi, Julie, Landon and Jackie, also step-grandchildren Jeff and Kyle Lloyd and his sister Ruby (Billie) Crawford. J.C. was a man for all seasons. Rest in peace. May those angels with special interest in farmers keep you safe.