Derek Crawford

1969 - 2016

Crawford, Derek "Crow"



Derek "Crow" Crawford, 46, died unexpectedly at his home in Albuquerque on January 12, 2016. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Christy Valdez Crawford and daughter, Rylie Valdez Crawford; his mother and father-in-law, Ruby and David Valdez, all of Albuquerque; his mother, Jacquelline Vandenbroeck; stepfather, Elmer Stefishen; his brother and only sibling, Quentin Crawford; his sister-in-law, Shelly Crawford; and his nieces, Veronica Anne and Brook Kaitlyn Crawford. He was preceded in death by his father, Gerald George Crawford, all of Winnipeg, Ontario, Canada.

A gentle giant of a man, Derek was strong and giving, with a big and compassionate heart. Those he befriended and those he loved describe him as sincere, funny, clever, creative, unique, positive, fun and as a great storyteller. Derek's presence filled up a room. Being a hockey player, Derek was competitive and an over achiever, but he had a wonderful sense of humor. Hard-working and sensitive to others, he would always go above and beyond for everyone he met. He was especially protective and loving as a husband and father. His family and many friends will remember him as always happy and fun to be around, a bright light in their lives, who now he sleeps in the arms of the angels.

Derek was born in Winnipeg and from an early age played hockey. As an adult he played professional hockey for various teams around the globe. He retired after a successful and enjoyable career while a player for the New Mexico Scorpions.

Derek was employed since 1996 as General Manager of NRG Staging for over 19 years. He very much enjoyed his work.

He was a coach for Roadrunner Baseball and one of his greatest pleasures was coaching his daughter, Rylie, in baseball. His greatest pleasure was spending time with his family. He enjoyed taking his wife and daughter to amusement parks and educational and historical sites. He enjoyed NASCAR, playing football, volleyball, softball, shooting pool, cooking and taking the family's motor home on vacations, getting on the road with his family at every opportunity. Derek just loved to drive.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that contributions be made to any favorite charity in his memory.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Daniels Family Funeral Services. Friends and family may go to Daniels website www.danielsfunerals.com to post tributes, remembrances or photos.

Derek's service will be held at 11:00 am, proceeded by a public viewing at 10:30 am, Monday, January 25, 2016, at Legacy Church's East Campus, 4701 Wyoming Blvd, NE, Albuquerque 87109 (505-433-5552 ). Viewing can also be done following the service at the church.

A celebration of Derek's life will follow at the State Fairgrounds, 300 San Pedro Dr. NE, Albuquerque 87108. The Daniels website will have the specific building. The final resting place of Derek's remains following cremation will be partially with his family in Canada and his family in New Mexico.

Daniels Family Funeral

Services

Carlisle Chapel

3113 Carlisle Blvd NE

Albuquerque, NM 87110

505-884-1188