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Daniel Crabtree Obituary
Sergeant 1st Class Daniel Brian Crabtree, 31, went to join other loved ones in Heaven on June 8, 2006.
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16
Dan pursued his dreams as a husband, father, and as a member of the Special Forces Company of the Ohio Army National Guard. He was a 1993 graduate of Lake High School, worked as a police officer for a year with the Hartville Police Department and for nine years with the Cuyahoga Falls Police Department. During his life he touched many lives in a special way and is loved by many who will miss him deeply.
He is survived by his wife of six years, Kathy, and baby daughter, Mallory; mother, Judy Crabtree; father, Ron Crabtree; grandfather, Wayne Crabtree; mother and father in-law, Paul and Marilyn Williams; brother, Bill Crabtree; sister, Debbie Crabtree Evans; and many other family and friends.
Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 17, 2006 at The Chapel--Green Campus, 1800 Raber Rd., with Rev. Robert Baker officiating. Calling hours will be 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the Schermesser Funeral Home, 600 E. Turkeyfoot Lake Rd. (Route 619). Interment at Greenlawn Cemetery in Uniontown. In lieu of flowers, Dan wished memorial contributions to be made to the Daniel Crabtree Family Memorial Fund for his daughter at any First Merit Bank.
God, please protect our soldiers who defend our country. De opresso liber. (Scher-messer--Green, 330-724-9351.)
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Daniel Crabtree
Mallory Crabtree
July 25, 2024
Dad, I will never disappoint you. I will keep your memory alive until the day I leave this earth. Your grandchildren will be raised to know who you are and how much of a hero you are to me and this country. Over 297.2K people know your story on social media because of me and It won´t stop there. I will be successful in life like you are and known to be. No matter what happens in life I know I am safe with you and mom. Mom supports me with every opportunity that comes my way. You married a strong woman. I love you so much and we miss you incredibly.
David Hohlbaugh
May 22, 2024
Salute Sir! Flags are at your resting place. Rest easy Warrior.
Mallory Ann Crabtree
November 1, 2022
dad, on Oct 15th 2022 a building in Columbus was named in your honor. There was also a statue that sits next to the building with your name on it. I gave a speech to over 200 people and will continue to keep your name alive. I love you so much dad. I will never disappoint you.
Mallory
May 28, 2021
it’s memorial day weekend. I miss you so much dad. Can’t believe it has almost been 15 years.
Cory Bosworth
October 12, 2020
Dan, I may not of known you but I met your father today and he had so much love for you and your family had so much love for you I just want to thank you for everything you sacrificed. You are remembered and loved, even by people you never met or knew. You won't be forgotten.
Mallory Crabtree
January 12, 2019
I love you daddy. I wish you were here.
Pete Ross
January 16, 2018
Dan,
I was able to visit your grave on Christmas Eve. I want you to know I miss you and that I have not forgotten your friendship or sacrifice. I dedicate this new year to you. I will continue to pray for Kathy and Mallory and the many people you have touched. I miss you brother...
Judy Crabtree
November 13, 2013
My dearest Danny,
You are everything to me. You have always been my hero, and Mom is so proud of you. I miss you beyond comprehension!
Kimberly Heid
November 12, 2013
Thinking of you this past week, tomorrow will be your birthday. And tomorrow is dads memorial service. Thank you for guiding dad home. Please take care of him.
Mike Baker
November 11, 2013
Thinking of you today, Dan.
Charlie Gili
April 20, 2013
Hello,
We would like to express our deepest condolences and also let the Crabtree Family know that we recently sent Care Packages to American troops in the war zones. Each box carried a dedication sheet that includes the name, service information and a photo of your loved one. We recognize that this is a humble tribute, but we wanted you to know that it is heartfelt and made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals in the youth hockey community and beyond. We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of the US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign
Judy Crabtree
April 20, 2013
Thinking of you, Dan, all this week as America came under attack from terrorists.
You will always be loved and honored by your mom. Miss you every day.
Judy Crabtree
November 13, 2012
Missing you terribly on your birthday. You always were my hero, and you always will be! Look forward to seeing you in Heaven.
November 4, 2012
In memory of Daniel Crabtree. We will forever be grateful for his service to his Country and Community.
Mike Heid
June 8, 2012
I miss and love you Danny!
Bill Crabtree
June 8, 2012
It is so amazing to still meet people that that knew you and how you touched their lives.I went up to one of our favorite vintage toy stores on Wednesday for the fist time in 6 years and felt you with me .That is one of the this I missed doing with you.I love Danny!
Peggy Childers
June 8, 2012
To the family and friends of Sgt. 1st Class Daniel B. Crabtree:
Always remembering Daniel. "Some gave all."
Judy Crabtree
June 7, 2012
Tomorrow is June 8, 2012. We have missed you every day for the past six years. We know you are alive and well and living in Heaven. You are in the arms of Jesus, but your mom wishes you were still here with us. We had your memorial 5K last weekend, but I am sure you already know that! I love you so much.
mike heid
November 28, 2011
I miss you and love you and think about you every day! I never get tired of telling people about you and get lots of questions from people about your life story when they see your tattoo on my arm! Till we meet again, thanks for looking out after all of us!
Judy Crabtree
November 27, 2011
My Precious Dan,
I am missing you so much since I returned from the Iliad Leadership Foundation event where you were honored. The video they made showed your determination to always do your best in all areas of your life. Being in the Archie Griffin Grand Ballroom at O.S.U. was a blessing, and I know you were there with your family as we celebrated your life. After more than 5 years without you, organizations are still honoring you. You are one amazing man! But to me, you are my special boy who I love dearly. I thank God every day for the years we had you here and for the precious little girl you and Kathy gave us. Forever in my thoughts,
Mom
August 19, 2011
The time has been changed to 10 a.m. on August 27th for the road dedication
August 18, 2011
The Sgt. Daniel B. Crabtree Memorial Road will be dedicated in Hartville on Sat., Aug. 27th at 11:00 AM. (Corner of 619 and Market)
June 10, 2011
I miss you, my precious son! I keep wondering how long I will feel this badly, but I know it will be until we meet again. I am so blessed to be your mother, and I know you watch over me and all who love you.
Mike Heid
June 9, 2011
De Oppresso Liber Danny! I miss and love you little cousin!
Mike & Pam Kavali
June 8, 2011
Just like this candle, after 5 years your memory still burns bright and lights up our lives. We miss you everyday and talk about you often with each other and our friends and family. We are so proud of you and were blessed to have you as a part of our lives as long as we did. Love you!
Peggy Childers
June 8, 2011
To the family and friends of Sgt. 1st Class Daniel B. Crabtree:
Please accept my remembrance of Daniel on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Kim Heid
June 8, 2011
As another year passes we remember you Danny, in our hearts and prayers. I know that you are an Angel watching over us, just as you did in life.
Debbie Crabtree-Wigbels
June 8, 2011
It has now been five years ago today that we received the tragic news. I think about you every day, all day. I take every opportunity to talk about you that I can (I'm sure you're rolling your eyes at me!) I am so proud to be your sister. We miss you and love you very, very dearly. Please keep watching over us and protect our little ones, Dan!
Julie McFall- Minnie
June 8, 2011
They told us that time would heel and today it has been 5yrs since your were taken away from us and it is still painful. There isn't a day that goes by we don't think of you. I know that you still continue to do amazing things and are watching over us daily. Just wish that we could see your smile one last time.
Judy Crabtree
February 16, 2011
Today, Dan, you are once again serving with your police brother, Dan Stiles. He taught you at Hartville PD. You can now teach him about Heaven. God Bless you both. Always know your mom misses you beyond belief.
Pam Kavali
June 11, 2010
4 years, Danny, and we miss you as much today as the day you left for Iraq. We miss everything about you and continue to keep your memory alive.
I just finished another school year and of course had students come back to visit me on the last day. One of the students, Tim, graduated in June 2006. At that time, he had heard about you in the news and from me because I couldn't attend graduation that year or his graduation party. Well, he wanted to personally tell me that he had graduated from Kent State in May 2010 and has enlisted in the U.S. Army. He will be leaving shortly for basic training. He shared with me that he hopes to follow in the same footsteps as you (provide service, get trained in certain programs, and eventually become a Green Beret). He wanted me to know how much I was an influence on his life and asked that I keep in touch with him on e-mail, etc. during this time. I made a deal with him: I'd do that if he promised to remember our dear friend's memory and work as hard as he did with the same vigor and pride. We shook hands and hugged on it.
I know you'd be excited to hear about this if you were here. I have a sneaking suspicion that you had something to do with this young man's decision, too!
Still in our hearts,
Mike and Pam
Dale Gramley
June 9, 2010
Dan, quite a few members of the Cuyahoga Falls Police Department got together last night in your memory, and had a toast in honor of you.Those of us who had to work wore our mourning bands for you. You are missed, and will always be a part of our history. Lt Dale Gramley
Julie McFall-Minnie
June 8, 2010
Dan,
Wow, four years have past and yet it still seems like yesterday. Everyone keeps saying that with time it will get easier, well they are wrong. I miss you just as much today as I did then. My children ask of you often and we share stories of you with them. Your legacy will live on forever. Thanks again for all that you have done and all that you continue to do.
We love and miss you greatly
Judy Crabtree
June 8, 2010
Dan,
This day is like every other day. We miss you, we think about you, and we love you more than the day before. Your little one is very proud of you and loves to hear about you. She was so proud of herself at the ONG Wreath laying. She wore her "America" dress, and said "That's my daddy!" when your name was said and the bell rung. Until we are together again, always remember how much your mom loves you.
Peggy Childers
June 8, 2010
To the family and friends of Sgt. 1st Class Daniel B. Crabtree:
Remembering Daniel on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Donna Marshall
June 8, 2010
We haven't forgotten you, Dan. Our memories of you will always be with us.
Bill Crabtree
June 7, 2010
Dan,One of the best things that happened on Memorial Day weekend was when we were getting ready to leave for Columbus,and Mallory turned to me[with your smile]and asked..hey Uncle Billy did you bring Star Wars to watch?That was so great! I love you! Bill
Deboerah Lochner-Eyre
April 24, 2010
I am a geocacher and have been honored with receiving the geocoin Fallen Heros as one of my coins. This coin is dedicated to Daniel. The coin will travel all over the world and whomever finds it will look it up and read about how Daniel gave his life so that we could live free.
Revere HS
March 24, 2010
Marine Gunnery Sgt. Robert Gilbert (Revere High School Class of 2000) died shortly after 9 p.m. Tuesday, March 16 — his 28th birthday — about a week after a sniper's bullet pierced his helmet in an ambush in Badghis province, Afghanistan. He was a casualty of operation in Enduring Freedom.
Danny,
This young man's death has once again sparked an interest in you. Each MALE student has come into my classroom and immediately honed into "your area" since that time. It has been very emotional but has been worth it. Each student now understands your meaning to life and the U.S.A. as well as to Mr. and Mrs. Kavali. Some of the best and worst students truly appreciate YOU and your service.
Almost four years later, you and your life story continue to amaze me...the way you touch others in present life. We love you and will never stop. Please keep your influence over these young ones and I will keep your memory alive!
Jamie Davidson
March 17, 2010
To Dan's Family,
On the morning of March 10, 2010 I was walking on the beach in Salvo, NC (on the Outer Banks) when I saw something glimmering in the sunlight in a small tidepool. I reached in the water and pulled out a bracelet from InourHearts.org with the inscription SFC Daniel B. Crabtree, Army 06/08/06, Green, Ohio and his picture. Now home in NW Pennsylvania, I still have the bracelet and I searched the internet for Daniel Crabtree. I have been touched and brought to tears reading his story on several sites and reading the guestbook at this site. I would love to know where, when and by whom the bracelet was lost and would gladly return it. I can only imagine the loss
you must all still feel. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sincerely,
Jamie Davidson
kurt crytzer
December 23, 2009
Dan,
Hard to believe it has been 2 1/2 years. I am sorry to you and your family...I would have done anything to bring you back unharmed. I am sorry for the suffering of your family, and the pain. I know you are heaven and next time we all meet, there will not be goodbyes. God bless you and Merry Christmas!
Mike Baker
November 13, 2009
I miss you brother. Happy Birthday.
Bill Crabtree
November 13, 2009
Happy Birthday Danny!Love You! Bill
Julie McFall - Minnie
November 13, 2009
Happy Birthday Dan! I was just sharing with my little ones on the drive to daycare that uncle dan's birthday is today. My oldest said to me "Mommy I thought you said that uncle dan was in heaven with Jesus". I replied to her and said "Yes, sweetheart he is in heaven, but today we still remember and celebrate his special day". She was okay with that and wants to go to the cemetary with me tonight to tell uncle dan happy birthday. I then promised that we would make a cake and sing Happy Birthday for you to. I know that you are physically gone but your spirit is here with us everyday. Thank you for all the you have done and all that you continue to do. We love and miss you so much.
The Minnie's
Judy Crabtree
November 13, 2009
Happy Birthday, Danny! Tonight your families in Ohio and Georgia will gather and remember your birthday. Bill's even having a cake for you. I have so many happy memories of you as a little boy. I recently saw a verse "Mother's Love." To paraphrase it says, "I wanted you before you were conceived. I loved you before you were born. When you were born, I would have died for you." Instead, you died for all of us. I can no longer give you tangible birthday gifts. My gifts are my ever-growing love for you and my promise that I will love your little one as much as I do you. I can't see you, but I feel you. I know you are here. Thank you for being there in Cleveland when we had our John Edward reading. We knew you'd come! We miss you so much. Love always, Mom
November 12, 2009
Just want to acknowledge your birthday, November 13th. I miss you and think about you all day, every day. I talk about you often and share stories with my patients. It is still unreal to me that you are physically gone, and I know you are still around in spirit (prankster!!!) I expect you to be waiting for me on the other side!
I love you dearly,
your big sis, Deb
Pam Kavali
November 11, 2009
Hi, Dan: Our school just had a Veteran's Day assembly for all veterans in all branches of the military. A commander in the Navy gave a motivational speech to us among other events, displays, and video productions. I held it together very well (i.e. looking away, breathing deeply, etc.) until we gave a moment of silence for the fallen soldiers during the playing of "Taps"...and then a slide show of you started whizzing through my mind...and the emotions just came...for many reasons: my pride for your service and sacrifices over the years, my admiration for your dedication to everything you did, and most of all my appreciation for having someone like you in life. You're still in our lives everyday and always will be.
courtney crabtree
September 18, 2009
Today is the day we are going to drive down to columbus for the run for fallen solders its so crazy because even though its been 3 years i still can't believe it. My dad just moved into his new house and finaly has his own toy room like you did just seeing him sit in the room with that little kid smile it makes me happy but i know something is missing i know his baby brother is not there to help him make up his room and act like a little kid again. Uncle Dan I love you so much and i miss you dearly you will always be in my heart!!!
Pam Kavali
September 11, 2009
Our school just had a moment of silence for the people who died as a result of terrorism on Sept. 11, 2001. My class had a discussion about our country's reaction and mobilization of troops. It gave me yet ANOTHER chance to discuss Danny's life and legacy. I gave them the URL for this site so that they can learn more about him.
Judy Crabtree
August 15, 2009
Danny,
If I joined you today, my sorrow would be over. We love you and miss you. I am heartbroken without you.
Mom
Monica Crabtree
August 12, 2009
Uncle Dan,
I find it both pretty cool, and pretty strange that your great neice who never had the chance of meeting you recognizes you in pictues, and utters your name at the sight of them. I assume you visit her quite frequently. I miss you, and I love you. I think about you throughout the day everyday, and always tell your story. I moving on to my 3rd semester of college. I hope that you are proud of me.
August 12, 2009
To everyone who knew and loved Dan,
Thank you for continuing to keep him in your thoughts. We miss him more than words could ever say. I am not surprised that he has left such a legacy, as he was a unique and very special man. I am blessed to have him as my brother.
We are all moving on with time because we have no choice. Life without Dan has left a huge and unfillable hole in all of our lives. All we have left are the memories, which we all need to visit frequently. We need to remember the often serious and caring man that he was as well as the goofball. I can honestly say that there is no one else like Dan!
So, Dan, know that we love you and miss you and will most certainly NEVER forget our beloved hero.
Debbie Crabtree
John Busch
August 11, 2009
Hey Dan,
We still miss you brother... You are gone, but definitely not forgotten. We'll see you soon.
JB
July 22, 2009
Three Years allready Danny Boy, Time flies doesn't it. Alot has happened, you have a new Niece & your brother iss till Nutty. I wish I had gotten to know you better Like i did with Bill. charlie
Kavalis
June 15, 2009
Danny,
It's been THREE years and you are still in our daily thoughts and conversations. We found your senior picture and a few others that gave us some laughs. You're memory is still alive here. Keep workin' your magic from up there!
Love ya,
courtney crabtree
June 10, 2009
uncle danny i will always miss you and monday was a very hard day for me i still cant believe its been three years already i still feel like gigi dad and the girls and i were just watching so you think you can dance and patty running in the house screaming and crying that memory will never get out of my head ever time i look at little mallory she remembers me so much of things you used to do it puts a smile on my face but also brakes my heart. I always was terrified mallory wouldnt know who her daddy was but she defently does. Your buddies are in iraq right now finishing what you wanted to i just hope it doesnt end the same for them i love you so much uncle dan and i will never forget when im singing a song that you are probably asking me " Courtney who sings this song" "keep it that way" he he i always think of that i love you soo much and i always will
MONICA CRABTREE
June 8, 2009
We are all so proud of you for all that you have done. Your unit is over there right now, and I pray for them everynight. "where'd you go-I miss you so-seems like it's been forever-since you've been gone"-Linkin Park.I Love You Uncle Dan!
Julie McFall Minnie
June 8, 2009
It is hard to believe that three years have past since such a wonderful man was taken from us here on earth. I know that you are safe and you still continues to watch over and protect all of us. This still is a difficult time for all of us. I think about my last phone converstion with you, and how I felt like I rushed you off the phone. If only I had known that would be the last time I would ever hear your voice I would have never hung up. I think about you calling to check on all of us and wondering how our adoption was going. I was eager to get off the phone and onto my next task, if only I had known. I know that you know how much my family and I adored you so I just wish I could have said so much more. I can't change the past but it has made me realize to enjoy every minute with our loves ones as for we never know what the future holds. Dan, you must be so proud to see Scott and I now, three years and three beautiful children later. I talk about you often to my children and we visit the cemetary often.
Dan we will continue to honor you and you will never be forgotten. You will be in our hearts forever. We love and miss you so much :-)
Elizabeth Schuett
June 8, 2009
I just wanted to take the time to let Kathy and Mallory, and all of Dan's Family and Friends to know that we are thinking of him and honoring him today. We not only think of him today, but everyday. Brian still talks of him often and the different ride-along scenerios they would get into together. His misses him deeply. Please know we have not, and never will forget him. You are truly missed "priv.".
Judy Crabtree
June 8, 2009
Remembrance Day 2009
We all wish Dan was here with us. The pain of losing him has not diminished. Today I am trying to celebrate that he is alive in Heaven. He is with Jesus, and he is working for Him. Dan remembers his life on earth, and he remembers us. He wants us to be happy.
He is still the same smart, brave, caring, and funny Dan we know.
Today I am also holding Dan's SF brothers in my prayers. I know this is a hard day for them, and they have been so good to us. God Bless Co.B, 2/19.
De Oppresso Liber!
Peggy Childers
June 8, 2009
To the family of Sgt. 1st Class Daniel B. Crabtree:
Daniel gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Barb Thomas
May 2, 2009
Ron & Bill, It was so good seeing you both this evening. I felt that the entire evening was in honor of Danny. Thank you for telling me that this guest book is still online, I did get to view the photos. It is unbelievable it will be 3 years; rest assured he will never be forgotten. I love you both
Kenna Larra
April 3, 2009
”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,450 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna
Pam Kavali
March 1, 2009
Friends and Family of Dan:
As you know, I have made a vow to keep Danny's memory alive and strong. It has been quite an easy job so far. Somehow I find myself talking about him in some way on a daily basis. The "shrine" to him, his service, and his sacrifice is growing in the front left corner of my classroom (it started with an 8x10 picture, then one of Mike's memorial t-shirts, then eventually grew into a binder of newspaper articles, etc.) underneath the American flag because students, faculty, and custodians continue to ask about him...even almost three years later!
The reason for this recent entry is to share with you that a few weeks ago one of my former students came to school to visit his former teachers. He was dressed in his ARMY UNIFORM and was clean-cut, polite, and smiling. He showed us pictures and certificates of the completion of his basic training. It was shocking to me because this was a student who barely received his high school diploma, had a bad attitude from a rough home life, and consistently broke the rules because he didn't care about the consequences. I had no idea he had the discipline it took to do this or was even interested in serving our country.
He has been assigned to a base in Hawaii, is engaged to be married to a wonderful young lady, and is very proud of his miiltary accomplishments and "family". He is looking forward to a great military career and life. HE HAS GOALS! This young man thanked me for everything I did for him in the four years that I taught him BUT mostly he thanked me for sharing my stories, thoughts, and feelings about one of the best men I knew - Danny. Apparently, it really "kicked my butt into thinking".
I believe in giving credit where credit is due. Certainly in this case, the credit is due to Danny's story. It had a profound influence on this student. Recently, he has been e-mailing me with brief updates and sending me pictures from his home on-base in Hawaii. In the last e-mail, he wanted me to let SGT first class Crabtree's parents and family know that he has been given orders to deploy to Iraq in August. When he gets there he promised me (without me asking) that he will keep Danny's memory alive over there and think of him and his strength as he, too, will be fighting in this war to protect us and our country from enemies...foreign and domestic.
Thank you, again, Danny for continuing to surprise me from up there. Leave it to you to be able straighten this kid out!
Monica Crabtree
December 26, 2008
LETTER TO HEAVEN
Christmas 2008
Uncle Danny,
Words cannot express how much I miss you. I could not count on my fingers and toes just how many times I think of you throughout the day. I can't even think of how many times I get tears to my eyes when I have to remind myself that you won't be there. Everytime I see your gorgeous little girl Mallory, I see you in her smile, I see you in her personality. I can't help but to close my eyes and just imagine that I am still sitting next to you on your couch. When I cry and become upset I just have to think about thefact that you could eat a whole pizza to your self , the way you would pinch Kathy's cheeks with a high pitched voice, how you would get hyped up wrestling around with
Courtney and I...just to bring a smile across my face. I didn't see you as the tough army man. To me you were just my goofy uncle. But when It came down to it you handled all
the lecturing, you bought me my bikes and gave me my first car. I miss you so much Dan! I can't help but cry knowing that it will be another Christmas that I won't get to give you a big hug when you open the door. I dream of you now and then. And you always give me
hugs, we share conversations, those dreams feel so real that I want to sleep just a little bit longer. You are my hero. You were an amazing man. You did so much in the short
life you lived. I can't wait to see you again.
Your first niece,
Monica Crabtree
Dan Watson
December 18, 2008
Crabtree Family,
I want to let you know people are still thinking about and praying for you. Dan, I still wear my bracelet with your picture on it every day. Thank you and I will never forget you.
Julie Minnie
December 12, 2008
I know that it has been over two years since you left us on earth. I really thought that is would have gotten easier as time went on. To my surprise it hasn't. I have lost many but I don't believe that any have been as hard as this. I have learned so many things about you. You never really spoke of your accomplishments. As I said before, I'm truly "Honored" to say you are my friend.
I also would like to thank you for my beautiful daughter. I know that she is a gift from you and for that reason we have given her Danielle as her middle name. You see I last talked to you the afternoon of June 6th. You had called to see how our adoption was going. At that time we were still waiting to hear from our agency for a referral from Guatemala. We still were active on the foster parent list at the time. It was June 8th at 10:45pm...I had a knock on my door and received the horrible news about you death. I didn't sleep, I was in complete denial...it had to be a horrible dream. My husband and family were by my side and helped me deal with my emotions. I had decided to go to work and then the morning of June 16th I received a phone call that a little girl needs us. I went to Children Services and picked up just two short hours before your calling hours and have had her since. You can see why we feel she is our special gift from you. You know that I couldn't get through this and you not only gave me the best gift but she was a great distraction from reality.
We did adopt her the following year along with our son from Guatemala. The same time we adopted them we found out that we were going to have a little miracle of our own. I know that you have a part in all of our wonderful gifts. You continue to help out even from above. Please know that I think of you often and pray for your family too. I also would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.
Miss you
Julie
Judy Crabtree
December 8, 2008
Dan's birthday has come and gone. Such a hard week with Veteran's Day just two days before. We still have so much to be thankful for on Thanksgiving, and I am blessed to be with Bill, Kathy, Debbie and all the little ones who keep us going. This Christmas is the third anniversary of when I last saw you, hugged you, and laughed at you, Dan. It seems like yesterday. I can still remember that last hug and my inward fear that this could be the last. You are in my thoughts constantly. I miss you so much! Merry Christmas in Heaven from your loving Mom.
Mike Baker
November 14, 2008
Dan, I talk about you every opportunity that I get. I love to brag about the person you are. Thank you for blessing my life with great memories. Thank you for holding me accountable.
We had our 15 yr. high school reunion this summer. We all talked about you and how much we miss you. We took a short moment to honor you and give thanks for your sacrifice.
I miss you buddy.
Julie Minnie
November 13, 2008
I know that it has been a while since I last wrote. I just want to say that I have been think about you a lot lately. I just want to wish you a happy 34th birthday. You are sure missed but I know that I will see you again and that is what gets me through this.
With Love
Julie
Remembering why we still do it...
November 13, 2008
BILL CRABTREE
November 12, 2008
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DANNY. I MISS YOU MORE EVERY DAY! LOVE ,YOUR BIG BROTHER.
courtney crabtree
November 7, 2008
hey uncle danny its along time since ive come on here i've been thinking about you so i thought i would tell you how much i love you and miss. I havent seen mallory or kathy that much but i still have my prmise that i made to you i love you so much and miss you
love courtney
The Summit Choral Society
November 1, 2008
In Remembrance, a tribute concert for Sgt. 1st Class Daniel B. Crabtree on Saturady, Nov. 8, 2008 in Akron, Ohio.
Join the Summit Choral Society on Saturday, November 8 at 7:30 p.m. at historic St. Bernard Church in downtown Akron as the Masterworks Chorale presents "In Remembrance" -- a concert combining the powers of music and art to remember and pay tribute to Northeast Ohio's service men and women who have lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan. Portrait artist William Rollins will display the portraits he has drawn of these soldiers as a personal tribute to each man and woman. The families of these fallen heroes have been personally invited to attend this memorial concert with a place of honor in the audience.
For more information, visit http://www.summitchoralsociety.org
Dick and Lynn Edlund
July 28, 2008
Dear Linda and Family,The magnificent journal of this journey, the testimonies of Dan's life before and during, are eloquently stirring and inspiring-by and to Dan, you Linda, and everyone involved. Our profound sympathy in your loss- heaven's gain, as he awaits our soon arrival-Dick and Lynn Edlund
MONICA CRABTREE
July 3, 2008
I MISS YOU DAN. I DON'T THINK IT GETS ANY EASIER FOR ANY OF US. ONE DAY WE WILL ALL BE TOGETHER AGAIN.
Kavalis
June 8, 2008
TWO YEARS ago today our lives were changed forever. Your memory lives strong and your legacy lives on. What is left to say? THANKS FOR BEING YOU.
In Memory of Daniel ~ (Debra Estep)
June 8, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know Daniel, but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
The Other Side –
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep
Twinsburg, Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
Judy Crabtree
May 30, 2008
Thank you all for your remembrance of our wonderful Dan. It means so much to his family. We miss him terribly but know we will see him again-forever!
May 30, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Sgt 1st Class Crabtree!
Mike Baker
May 27, 2008
I miss you brother. As always your in my thoughts.
Patriotic Citizen
May 26, 2008
ALL GAVE SOME AND SOME GAVE ALL...we are truly grateful for you. Remembering you this Memorial Day...
Elizabeth Schuett
May 24, 2008
I can't believe it's been two years this June. Brian still tells me stories about you and him patroling the streets together. We think of you and your family often. You will never be forgotten. Remembering you this Memorial Day and every day.
Dale Gramley
March 15, 2008
Dan, it's amazing how many people view the tribute we have of you in the Cuyahoga Falls Police Department, go silent, get a tear in their eye and just say "wow, what a tragic loss". Your memory still lives with us Dan.
SUZANNE DELMAR
March 14, 2008
DAN , I CAN SEE YOU HELPING MY SON ON HIS WEDDING DAY FIXING HIS TIE AND TALKING TO HIM TRYING TO KEEP HIM CALM. THAT IS DAN A TRUE FRIEND. MY SON LOVES YOU LIKE A BROTHER. WE HAVE BEEN BLESSED TO HAVE YOU IN OUR LIVES. GOD BLESS YOU DAN
Monica Crabtree
March 9, 2008
Uncle Dan,
After just recently having a baby... I now understand the famous quote you often spoke of. "one day, you will understand". I totally get it now and I wish I could hug you and thank you for all of your helpful lectures. I wish I could introduce you to my daughter. I know you are around , please watch over us, and keep my new little family safe! I love you so much.
John Shaw
February 29, 2008
SFC,
As one of the members of the honor guard team at your funeral service, I didn't know you. Placing the flag by your shoulder at the funeral home, watching your sweet, curly haired daughter plop down at the head of your casket as we stood guard, "Looked so much like my own little one when she was that age. Mine is 17 now and barely speaks to me" and seeing so many people who expressed such grief at loosing you made it very difficult to maintain my usual stoaic, dry eyed demeanor, but out of pure discipline we did. At Ft. Hood, getting ready to go back into the suck again. I will write your name on our M1114. We won't forget our losses.
Julie Minnie
February 19, 2008
Dan,
I have been thinking about you a lot lately. I can't believe that has been over a year and a half since we lost you. I think back to our last phone converstaion and you asking how our adoption was going. I would have never thought 21 months later that I would have three kids. Our adoption from Guatemala was completed Aug 8, 2007 and we finally got to adopt the little girl that you brought to us on Aug 13, 2007 too. To think that we are going to have our own bio son anyday is amazing. I wish that you were here on earth to share this excitement with us. I know that you are watching over us and have helped answer so many of our prayers. We are so grateful and there isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of you.
Thanks for all that you have done and all that you continue to do.
Love,
Julie
Monica Crabtree
November 23, 2007
Wishing you a Happy belated birthday uncle Dan! I know your with us a lot and I value seeing you in my dreams. I love you sooo much.
Mom
November 13, 2007
Today is Dan's birthday, and we miss him so much. We know he can see us, so we will again celebrate his life and what he means to us tonight as we release balloons in his honor and memory. My love for you is greater than my tears, Danny.
Students at Revere
November 13, 2007
Mr. Crabtree, we heard your name read for fallen soldiers and saw your cool picture in your army gear yesterday @ the Veteran's Day assembly. Mrs. K thinks you rock and so do we! we don't know what to say except THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AND KEEPING US SAFE AND FREE
Debbie Evans
September 11, 2007
Today, on this 6th anniversary of 9/11,my heart is heavy. For it was 6 years and two weeks ago Dan re-enlisted in the Army. The goal was to achieve the coveted Green Beret, which he did. The reason was far greater. Dan believed in fighting terrorism overseas before it reached our country. He was passionate about this.
So, baby brother, I thank you with all my heart for what you've done for all of us. I will never let a day pass without thinking of you and how proud I am.
August 8, 2007
What can I say or do to take away the pain, nothing, so I will not pretend that I know what to say or do that would bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.
Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.
I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON (KIA on 07/06/07) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.
REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
Monica Crabtree(neice)
August 6, 2007
Uncle Danny,
I know that it was yesterday but I just wanted to say HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! I love you and Aunt Kathy both, and I miss you so much!
Pam Kavali
August 1, 2007
Danny - It has been over a year now since you have been gone from us. We have continued to share your story with everyone and anyone who talks about Bush, the war, Iraq, etc. with us. It doesn't take much! :) We attended both the Hartville and Green memorials where you have plaques dedicated and forever placed in your honor. We proudly wear the shirts and pins and display pictures. Also, Green even named a week after you!
As Gardner's mom, Nancie, already shared - about two months ago Mike, Mike, Brian, Kev, and Jason(and their women)gathered on Tybee Island for vacation, fun, and memories. We came together to celebrate life, each other, and of course you. That week, many stories were told, pictures were shown, and toasts were given. Most of all we all agreed we would give up ANYHTING to have you back in our lives and with us again.
Scrapbooking one day, I came across this saying: "One day your life will be your legacy - make sure it's worth sharing". I immediately thought of you. In your 31 years of life you have left such a tremendous legacy worth remembering and sharing with everyone. You can count on my big mouth to continue to tell anyone who brings up a subject close to anything related to you.
We are forever grateful to have had you in our lives and cannot wait to meet up with you again, Sarge!
July 30, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Sgt 1st Class Crabtree and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! It is especially sad to lose someone from our area. May God bless all of you!!
Judy Crabtree
July 20, 2007
The newest Star Wars book is dedicated to the memory of Dan. It is Legacy of the Force: Sacrifice by Karen Traviss. Karen was commissioned by George Lucas to write 3 books, and Sacrifice is the second of her series. Sacrifice is in bookstores now (even at Wal-Mart) all over the world. The dedication is beautiful and is a great tribute to Dan.
Amanda Bartel
July 15, 2007
I just stumbled across this site and read the many great letters for Dan and his family. It was a honor to know Dan he is a true hero. I think of him often and I pray for his family.
Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7
Nancie Paruso
June 25, 2007
A week ago 5 young men and their significant others gathered on a small island off the coast of Savannah, GA. They have all been friends since kindergarten when they started school at Lake. They came together to remember and celebrate the life of their closest friend Danny. Danny was the glue that kept them together but it was the spirit of Danny... that still binds them together... that will continue to bring them together for the rest of their lives. Not a day goes by that the friendship they had with Danny is not celebrated, appreciated or remembered. Danny thank you for still watching over your friends. Many toasts were made in your honor and fond stories were shared of you growing up. God Bless you!
Mike's Mom
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