John Albert Crawshaw, age 91, of Knob Noster, passed away Thursday, February 1, 2024, at Ridge Crest Nursing Center.

He was born March 23, 1932, in Topeka, KS, the son of Albert Gordon and Josephine (Bronough) Crawshaw.

On October 11, 1952, he and Betty Byford were united in marriage in Purcell, OK, and enjoyed a wonderful marriage for 71 years. He served our country proudly, first in the U.S. Navy and then in the U.S. Air Force, where he specialized in aircraft mechanics and the Minuteman Missile Program. He retired from the military after 26 years as a Master Sergeant, then earned a Master of Science degree in Industrial Safety from UCM in Warrensburg, MO.

In his free time, John enjoyed gardening, home projects, working on his cars, and listening to Paul Harvey on the radio. "Papa," as he was affectionately called after having grandchildren, also enjoyed bowling and spending time with family and friends. He had a heart for animals and adopted many dogs and cats over the decades.

He was always willing to lend a hand with projects and repairs, from helping build decks and sheds to fixing leaking faucets and thawing frozen pipes. He was a devoted and loving husband, supportive and dependable father, and fun and engaging grandfather.

John is survived by his wife, Betty Crawshaw; his sons, John Crawshaw, Ronald (Sherrie) Crawshaw, and Randy (Julie) Crawshaw; five grandchildren; and five great grandchildren with another on the way.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Marge and Violet; and a grandson, Richard Crawshaw.

The family will receive friends from 9:30-10:30 a.m. on Friday, February 9, 2024, at Sweeney-Phillips & Holdren Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 10:30 with Pastor Randy Crawshaw officiating. Interment will follow in Missouri Veteran Cemetery, Higginsville. Pallbearers will be Ron Crawshaw, Sr., James Crawshaw, Ron Crawshaw, Jr., Jason Crawshaw, Nathan Crawshaw, and David Stoermer.

Memorial contributions are suggested to His House of Worship and left in care of the funeral home.