CRAWFORD, Michael Michael Clark Crawford died peacefully on Friday September 7, 2018 in a hospital near Amsterdam, Netherlands. He was surrounded by his loving wife, Betsy and his two sons, Michael and Scott. Mike will be remembered by many for his great love of life. He loved boating, cycling, traveling and spending time with loved ones. Though he left us too soon, he was fortunate enough to spend his last moments on this Earth with his best friend by his side doing what he loved. Mike was born in Oil City, PA, on January 10, 1947 to James Burton Crawford Jr and Jane White Crawford Burnett. He graduated from Mercersburg Academy in Mercersburg, PA and furthered his education at Duke University and University of South Carolina. Mike served in the Marine Corps Reserves from 1966-72. Following his graduation from USC, Mike moved to Atlanta where he met Betsy Akers, on a a blind date set up by family friends. Mike and Betsy were blessed with two sons, four grandchildren, 47 years of marriage and a lifetime of wonderful memories. Mike enjoyed a successful career in real estate. Among the highlights: he represented Wachovia Pension Fund as they developed office park properties around the Southeast, most notably Oakbrook Parkway in Gwinnett County. Mike was instrumental in the purchase of Sugarloaf Farms from 0. Wayne Rollins in the 70's and creating the Sugarloaf exit on 185. Mike was active in his community. He was a longtime member at First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta, where he taught Sunday School, worked with youth groups for special outings, served as an Elder and Deacon, and served on various committees. He was an active participant in the King Biking Group and the Piedmont Driving Club Men's Exercise Group. Mike was a longtime member of the Friday Morning Men's Fellowship Leadership Ministries program. Mike is survived by his beloved wife Betsy (Elizabeth Akers Crawford); sons Michael Clark Crawford Jr. (Amy) and Scott Akers Crawford (Rosaline); grandsons: Clark Crawford and Price Crawford; granddaughters: Mary Greer Crawford and Magnolia Crawford; his sister Nancy Crawford Soteres (Jim); his brother James B. Crawford (Karen) of Charles Town, WV; his step-sisters Peggy Burnett of Greenville, SC and Sally Burnett (Tom Sweeny) of Pisqah Forest, NC; his step-brother, Jackson Wilbur Burnett Jr. (Sandra) of Balsam Preserve, NC; his sister-in-law Mary Helen Akers Abbott; his brothers-in-law: C. Scott Akers Jr., (Betsy), J. Frederick Akers (Debi) and Robert William Akers, and many wonderful nieces and nephews. He will be dearly missed. A Celebration of Life service will take place on Saturday, September 22 at First Presbyterian Church, located at 16th and Peachtree Street, at 2:00 PM with a reception immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider a donation to First Presbyterian Church, The Winship Cancer Institute, or The American Heart Association.
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Betsey,
It was a pleasure and honor to meet you and Mike on our Poland trip. I am sorry for your loss which is never easy. At least you were together and doing what you both loved.
Wishing you the best!
John Homsher
September 25, 2018
We are going to miss Mike terribly. He was such a kind and considerate man. The only problem with his dying is that it was 20 years too soon. If he had been 91 and died on his bike we would all be envious. We love you Betsy.
Tom and Grace
September 24, 2018
Brenda Gaskins
September 20, 2018
Dear Betsy and Family: We am so deeply sorry to hear of the passing of your adorable husband, Michael. Even though we can't imagine how difficult your days must be and saddened you and your family are to lose him, know we grieve with you.
Please know that Bob and I are praying for you and your family..
Hopefully, one day your sadness will be replaced by the joy of your fondest memories of him and how much he loved and shared life with your family and friends.
with heavy hearts and deepest sympathy,
Merrie Beth and Bob Donehew
September 20, 2018
I am so sad to hear of your heart breaking loss. You all will remain in my prayers..
Linda Wyatt
September 20, 2018
My thoughts and prayers are with Crawford family and friends in your hour of grief. May you find peace and comfort in the God of all comfort.
CA White
September 20, 2018
My sympathy goes out to the family during this time of grief. May God's loving-kindness comfort you and help you through this difficult time.(Psalm 119:50,76)
EK
September 19, 2018
Our heartfelt condolences to the Crawford family and friends over the great loss your loved one. May your cherished memories of Michael always be with you and may God comfort your hearts.
jdw
September 18, 2018
During this time of great sorrow and pain, know that you are not alone. May God give your family strength and comfort to help you endure this loss. As you remember your beloved one, may our Father, the God of peace, give you comfort and peace in every way today, tomorrow, and always. Please accept my sincere condolences. 2 Thessalonians 3:16
September 18, 2018
Dear Betsy,
We will forever remember our short time with you and Mike on our Amsterdam to Bruges cycle tour.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Bobbie and Bill Steele
September 18, 2018
My thoughts and prayers are with the Crawford family and friends in your hour of grief. May you find peace and comfort in the God of all comfort. Matt 5:4.
CA White
September 18, 2018
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Rev 21:3&4 G. Johnson
September 18, 2018
I was honored to know Mike as a friend and fraternity brother at Duke and sharing the same experience of interrupting our college experience to join the USMCR during the Vietnam era. Brothers who knew Mike during his short tenure at Duke are very saddened to learn of his passing. We know Mike had pride in and took great pleasure from his wonderful family and friends who will miss him as we will. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you navigate this tough time. Love and respect.
Holt Anderson
September 17, 2018
Your family is in our prayers. Daily.
Reid and Kay Conyers
September 17, 2018
May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.
American Heart Association
September 17, 2018
May the God of comfort and peace continue to be with family and friends to see you through this difficult time. Hosea 13:14
September 17, 2018
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