Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Gary Crawford Obituary
A Celebration of Life honoring Gary Lee Crawford, 66, beloved husband, Dad, son, brother, uncle, grandpa and "Pa" will be held on Saturday, Oct. 9, at 11 a.m., at Community Presbyterian Church, 425 Hemlock St., Vacaville.
Gary passed away at home in the early morning hours of Wednesday, Sept. 29. By his side was his wife of 46 years, Gayle. He was born on Dec. 31, 1943, in Redlands, Calif., to William and Beatrice.
He learned his strong work ethic growing up on his family's ranch in Modesto, Calif. During this time he met the love of his life at the tender age of 17. He went on to become a self-taught licensed land surveyor, applying his knowledge and love of the profession with Stanislaus County, Army Corps of Engineers, Phillippi Engineering and Solano County, from which he retired in 2004. At that time, he was the deputy county surveyor.
Retirement didn't mean he slowed down. More time was spent with his family and working on a variety of projects he had always been planning to do. The last project he poured his heart into was the sanctuary renovation of Community Presbyterian Church. Gary was deeply involved with this project. At the time we celebrate his life, this project will be ongoing. He is sure to be in our midst as we gather on this day.
Gary is survived by his mother, Beatrice; wife, Gayle; brothers, Dale (Linda) and Harold (Rosanne); daughters, Missy (Jeff) and Jenny; grandchildren, Debbie, Dean, Emma and Nate; and many more loving family and friends.
We are so thankful for the loving support of so many family and friends during Gary's brief battle with melanoma. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Gary's name to the Community Presbyterian Church Sanctuary Renovation Fund 425 Hemlock St., Vacaville, Calif., 95688.
Arrangements by Vaca Hills Chapel Funeral Home, 446-3233, www.vacahillschapel.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gary Crawford
Dave & Ronni Aronson
September 30, 2025
15 Years, the time flies by but our memories of Gary and Gayle remain. Always thankful for having known such a positive and caring man. A true friend, always there for you. Willing to lend a hand almost til the end. We all miss our budy Gary. The way he lived is a testimony of his love for his Saviour. God Bless your Soul. And God Bless Gayle, their love for each other will never end.
Dave & Ronni Aronson
September 27, 2024
The time does not diminish the loss that friends and family feel when a wonderful person like Gary passes. A one of a kind, we miss you! We keep
Gary and Gayle in our prayers.
Dave & Ronni Aronson
September 27, 2023
So my wife fondest memories are with Gary and Gayle. Gary was everyone´s best friend. He was always there when you needed him always willing to listen. We miss you, Gary.
Dave & Ronni
David Aronson
September 27, 2022
Always your Friend, always there to lend his hands and brain to what ever project you told him you had going. Never having to ask for help and always knowing he would be there. The deep wisdom he added in our prayer group was appreciated. You are missed Gary. I know that he is in the presence of our Lord.
David & Ronni ARONSON
September 27, 2020
Gary, always a friend, never a negative word about anyone, a spirit of love and cooperation. If we were all
like Gary, the world would truly be at peace. 10 years later, thought of frequently, our prayers for Gayle and family, never forgotten.
Greg & Vita
October 18, 2010
Dear Gayle,
Am so sorry for your loss, I enjoyed the few times I spoke with Gary, he would always have a readily available smile and a wave when he drove past in his truck. May God comfort you throughout your time of grief.
David Aronson
October 8, 2010
Gayle, Missy and Jenny:
We are blessed to have known Gary, to have witnessed as friends, his gift as a father, grandfather and husband. Gary was the largest man I have ever known. We miss him but know his memory in our hearts will live forever. God bless you all.
David & Ronni
Lisa Scott
October 7, 2010
Dear Gayle, Missy, and Jenny:
As your former neighbor and babysitter of Missy and Jenny, I have fond memories of all of you. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Lisa Scott
Magi Philpot
October 6, 2010
Gayle, you are in my thoughts and prayers. The love and deveotion between you and Gary is inspiring. I hope you find some peace during this time.
David Mote
October 6, 2010
Gayle,
My heart goes out to you. I'm thankful to Gloria Hess for forwarding the notice. I won't be able to attend the service because I'm doing a short term interim ministry in South Carolina. I have you and the family in my prayers.
Missy Monroe
October 5, 2010
I love you, Dad! Always!
Vaca Hills Chapel
October 4, 2010
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Showing 1 - 13 of 13 results
Make a Donation
in Gary Crawford's name
Memorial Events
for Gary Crawford
Funeral services provided by:
Vaca Hills Chapel Funeral Home - Vacaville524 Elmira Road, Vacaville, CA 95687
How to support Gary's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Gary Crawford's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
