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John Crawford Obituary
1931 - 2017
John W. Crawford, age 86, passed away on August 30, 2017 in Columbus. John was perhaps Ohio State's biggest fan. He attended every home football game for 73 years, starting in 1943.
A friend to all who knew him, he played many roles in a very full life. In his own words:
--
DEAD TO THE WORLD
I have been the luckiest guy, lived two lives, and enjoyed the best of two worlds.
The first, single life began when my brother Dick and I won the ovarian lottery and were born to John H. and Evelyn Wilson Crawford. We were raised and educated in the wonderful world of the middle class. I graduated from Linden McKinley High School and The Ohio State University, where I was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, ROTC, and Ohio Staters. I was Field Director of the Block "O" in 1951 and '52, and a varsity cheerleader in '53 and '54 – and cheered in the '55 Rose Bowl for Woody Hayes' first undefeated Big Ten, Rose Bowl, and National Championship team.
I became a professional comedian; producer/director and actor on the stage, screen, radio and television; an artist; and a teacher.
My second and best life began in 1973, when I married Harriet Romanoff and her four beautiful daughters: Karin, Julie, Laurie, and Lynn. I was blessed when meeting and being accepted by Harriet and the girls – that was the luckiest thing to happen in my life. The five of them made me very happy and very proud.
With that package came a Collie named Pepper, and three best friends: brother-in-law Ivan Romanoff, and a little later sons-in-law Jon Orr and Mike Heifner. Seven wonderful grandchildren followed: Benjamin, Matthew, and Michael Orr; Hallie Pendergast; and Robbie, Hannah and Sam Heifner. My brother Dick and many nieces and nephews complete our close family.
One set back was when Julie preceded me in 2011. I said at the time that chronologically I should be next, and I did not want anyone 'ditching' me anymore. Other than the loss of Dick's dear wife Jo in 2012, they haven't.
During my life I had many close and meaningful friends, a loving family, and a wonderful life. When I was growing up, I wanted to be somebody. I should have been more specific.
"It is all right not to be famous if you don't want to be."
--
Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of John's life will be held this Sunday, Sept. 3 from 1-4 PM at the Ohio Union, in the Sigma Phi Epsilon Lounge on the third floor. The family wishes to thank the physicians and staff at Riverside Methodist Hospital, Wesley Glen, and Ohio Health Hospice for their care and support in recent months. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to your favorite charity. Arrangements entrusted to SCHOEDINGER NORTHWEST CHAPEL.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Crawford
Sponsored by The Columbus Dispatch.
Jeffrey B hoffer
November 13, 2024
John you were an amazing person to know. You were very humble from your achievements and life's experiences. Harriet and yourself were always kind to me and how you two looked in on mrs. Stilwell was sweet and kind. I'm sorry you had to go and if I was able to achieve a quarter of the life you lived I would consider myself successful but you have outdone yourself kind sir. God bless Harriet and family and friends until we meet again kind sir.
Laura Weidner- Gardner
August 27, 2022
I will never forget Mr. C until my dying day. He was a wonderful teacher at the Fort Hayes. He genuinely cared for people. I miss him.
Laura Gardner
September 3, 2019
Mr. Crawford made an impact on my life. It was because of his loving patience that this shy young girl was able to break out of her shell and try new things. I always looked forward to his letter at Christmas. He called me a few years ago and I had hoped to visit him one more time, but time never permitted me that opportunity. I think of him often and never will forget how blessed I have been to have Mr. C, as we called him, as my teacher. I know your family will miss him for he was larger than life.
Alan and Ann Woods
September 10, 2017
So saddened to hear of John's passing; our whole community is lessened by his departure. He created many memorable moments in the arts as a performer, as a director, as a teacher, as an enthusiastic audience member, and in so many ways. Sorry to have missed the memorial service due to other commitments and long term engagements. He was also a terrific neighbor and neighborhood resource!
Teresa VanDyne
September 8, 2017
I had Mr Crawford as my teacher for two years at Fort Hayes in Radio and Television. When I went to work at OSU in 1987, I was pleasantly surprised to see his picture in the hallway of the Fawcett Center leading to the Alumni Association and University Advancement. He was a very good teacher and a very nice man.
Ann Wollett Snyder
September 7, 2017
I first met John in 1957, when he was working at NBC Channel 4 for the summer.I remember that I had to take over his job when he went on vacation for a couple of weeks.I , was sure I couldn't do it...he assured me in his hilarious asides..that I would be just fine..And I was. Would run into him here and there over the years. Always so funny and sweet...He truly was one of a kind..Heaven is an even happier place, right now.
April Estis-Clark
September 5, 2017
Mr. Crawford was my teacher, my mother's colleague and a dear friend to my family. My deepest condolences go out to Harriet and the rest of the family. John will surely be missed.
September 4, 2017
Stephanie Manson, Ted Manson's daughter. John was a great man and very funny. Always loved the Christmas cars. My heart is with his beloved family and friends.
Mike Meyer
September 4, 2017
1298 E. 17th Ave. A great neighbor/friend
September 3, 2017
John a beloved friend and Mentor of 50+ years.A cherished memory of our all night drive to the Ohio State/Illinois football game in John's heater less VW Beetle.We robbed our mutual Piggy Banks for gas money and to buy tickets(hopefully)at The game.The look on the bank tellers face when we set the two jars of change on the counter was priceless. It only took a half hour to wrap the coins(before coin counters)
Thanks for the memories!!You will be missed!
Prayers to all who were blessed to know John.
Floyd Love OSU class of 1963.
Ruth Ann & Terry Lane
September 3, 2017
Ruth Ann & Terry Lane
September 3, 2017
Ruth Ann & Terry Lane
September 3, 2017
Ruth Ann & Terry Lane
September 3, 2017
Ruth Ann & Terry Lane
September 3, 2017
Pamela Hill
September 3, 2017
Heartfelt condolences to Harriet and the family. Six years ago John walked into my office at Beckenhorst Press with pictures of himself and John Ness Beck in productions at Stadium Theatre at OSU. I had them mounted in a wonderful collage which now hangs on the wall, a perfect tribute to two incredibly talented men and their theatrical endeavors. Beckenhorst is located at 960 Old Henderson Road should you ever wish to see it.
Karen Russell
September 2, 2017
Oh Harriet....my heart is so very heavy when I heard about the loss of your beloved Johnny from Robin today. You were such an inspirational couple and the true essence of love and devotion and what a happy marriage is all about.
I was so delighted that I could see Johnny on a recent trip to Ohio to visit my Mom. He was such an incredible man, so full of fun personality, joy and creativity. He had such a unique ability to make people laugh. It was a privilege to know him, and of course YOU since I was in high school...just a few years, lol.
I hope your memories will give you comfort in the days ahead. I wish I could give you a hug, in person. Please know that I am sending you hugs from Hawaii, and if you ever want a little R and R, please come to Big Island for a visit and you can stay with us.
"When the heart grieves over what it has lost, the spirit rejoices in what it has left." Johnny certainly left a lot for you and all who were lucky enough to know him. Love, Karen (Rosenfeld Russell)
Happier times at Mom's 91st bday
Karen (Rosenfeld) Russell
September 2, 2017
Jackie Bates
September 2, 2017
John was in the first play I was in at Players Theatre (then Players Club). I learned so much just from watching him. We had many happy theatre memories. My heart goes out to Harriet and his extended family.
Linda Gusler
September 2, 2017
I have such fond memories of the times I came to Columbus to visit with my cousin Harriet and my cousin John and all the children and grandchildren. He was my guide throughout Columbus and he was the nicest gentleman I have ever met. I will live with the memories of him always hugging Julie always listening to Karin, Laurie and Lynn, all the grandkids. But most of all I will miss him.
LINDA
Melody Scott
September 2, 2017
Mr. Crawford was my teacher at Ft. Hayes. He was a great man, an amazing teacher and a wise friend. I couldn't wait to get to school every day because of he and Mr. Bowers. They made learning so much fun! After graduation, I'd call from time to time. No matter what he was doing, he stopped and talked as long as I wanted to. He was kind, funny and devoted. He loved his family so much and he honored all his students by making us part of that family. Rest in peace, Mr. C. Much love!
Melody
Jeff Morris
September 2, 2017
John was a true friend to all.
The Crawford and Romanoff families have always included me and my family in their lives and I cherish the wonderful memories of all of those activities and happy times.
I am honored to be John's Friend.
September 2, 2017
John and I graduated from Eleventh Ave Elementary School, as well as Linden Junior/Senior High School. He appeared on many Variety Shows at L.M.High School. We were looking forward to celebrating our 68th Linden McKinley Reunion with John this coming Friday Sept. 8th, 2017 but we know he will be with us in spirit. Our condolences to Harriet and family. Anita Gill Croce, as well as my husband Chet
Kevin Swales
September 2, 2017
I only knew him through my father, Don Swales, who is probably one of the last person, in that 1940s era to still be alive in 2017, thanks to today's wonderful medical technology. When I was younger, I once thought that HE was the little actor who played next to Chuck Connors in the old TV western, "The Rifleman" But, today I know different. John has seen coaches from Woody Hayze's first coaching season to Urban Myer's third but comes just one week short of his fourth. His seat, in Ohio Stadium hasn't been vacant since September of 1943, has got to be a record that will last forever! I will always remember his presents at tailgate parties just outside St. Johns arena today and 30 years under an oak tree next to Woody Hayze Dr.
with JC at our 30 year reunion, class of 1981
Brenda Browning-Doblinger
September 2, 2017
Stacey Conway
September 2, 2017
My condolences to a beautiful family. In my younger years while visiting with the family the one thing I remember is John always smiling and loving his family and being loved by them. My heart goes out to all of you, Harriet, Karin, Laurie and Lynn.
Roger Wilkerson
September 2, 2017
Harriet and family,
This is a sad day indeed. John was not only an incredible teacher but a one-of-a-kind giant filled with creativity and compassion.
I feel blessed that he was my teacher for radio and television production. He absolutely changed my life.
Sending lots of love from Thailand,
Roger Wilkerson
Marylee (Hayes) Schwab
September 1, 2017
I knew Johnny from his Linden McKinley days. He was such a funny guy, on stage or in life. I am sorry for his family's loss but it made me happy reading his obituary that he had written and to know he had such a happy and full life. Prayers of comfort to all who loved him.
September 1, 2017
John. You are a truly beautiful human being. I will miss you. It is with a sad heart that I write this, but your sense of humor and your positive life will be with me forever. Ron
Diana Harkness
September 1, 2017
Harriet, I am so sorry. I always enjoyed seeing John when I was there working with you on computer issues.
stanley katz
September 1, 2017
Harriet,
My deepest condolences .
A wonderful man and wonderful years.
Stanley katz
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