Richard Glen Crabtree

Richard Crabtree passed away on September 9th, 2024 at the age of 69. 

His service will take place on September 30th beginning at 9:45 am with a funeral mass at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church 5953 Bowman Roberts Rd Fort Worth, TX 76179. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Richard’s honor to Beautiful Feet Ministries, a Ft Worth homeless shelter, where Richard volunteered to cook for their Meal Ministry Services for more than 16 years. 

Richard was born in Dallas, Texas and later moved to Nebraska. He attended Milford College, where he pursued a degree in drafting while braving a 35-mile bicycle commute in all weather conditions—so dedicated that he once received a speeding ticket on his bike! After graduation, he married and joined the US Army as a combat engineer, serving during the Vietnam War and finishing his service in West Germany. Following his military service, Richard began a career with the U.S. Geological Survey, part of the Department of the Interior starting in Lincoln, Nebraska, before relocating back to Texas in the early 1980s. As a cartographer, Richard played a key role in developing a pioneering 3D computer program that accounted for the earth’s curvature, leaving a lasting impact in the field of mapmaking. 

Richard was a man of diverse interests and passions, finding joy in both the great outdoors and the comfort of his home. He had a deep love for camping and fishing, often spending time at the lake on his boat and especially loved going on his family fishing trips to Canada. Richard enjoyed taking long drives or weekend getaways in his truck but also had a special affinity for Datsun cars and trucks, investing hours in restoring and maintaining them for himself and his daughters once they were old enough to drive. Richard had a green thumb for growing vegetables in his garden as well as a talent for cooking, smoking brisket and baking batches of Christmas cookies. He had a knack for woodworking, creating beautiful pieces that showcased his craftsmanship. Richard was a kind and genuine person who will be truly missed by all who had the pleasure to know him. 

Richard was preceded in death by his father, William Crabtree; his mother, Rosemary Longshore; his brothers, David and Douglas Crabtree; and stepson, Danny Pugh. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Susan Crabtree; his daughters, Adria Crabtree, Kim McCauley, and Lisa Crabtree; his brother, Dean Crabtree; his stepchildren, David Pugh and Shannon Aranda; and his cherished grandchildren, Taylor, Nathan, Lyndsey, Karlie, Rylee, and Andres.