Carl G. Crabtree

May 17, 1952 - May 6, 2025

Grangeville, Idaho - Carl G. Crabtree, a proud Idaho rancher, devoted family man, and public servant, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 9:05 a.m. MST at St. Luke's Medical Center in Boise, with his family at his side, following a recent battle with brain cancer. The community mourns the passing of this man of grit, heart, and convictiona rare blend of old-school values and forward-thinking vision whose roots ran deep in Grangeville. Born in May 1952, he was raised near Kooskia with an unshakable work ethic, graduated from Clearwater Valley High School, and earned a B.S. in Plant Science from the University of Idaho in 1974.

For over four decades before entering state politics, Crabtree served Idaho County with distinction. Starting in 1974, he worked as a University of Idaho extension agent, served 31 years as Idaho County Weed Supervisor, and was deeply involved in 4-H. His commitment extended to leadership roles within the agricultural industry. His contributions earned him accolades such as the Idaho Cattlemen's "Cattleman of the Year" (2004) and "Beef Industry Leader of the Year" (2022).

Alongside his wife, Carolyn, Carl operated Spade Limousin Ranch near Grangeville and a small livestock trucking business. This hands-on experience grounded his understanding of the challenges faced by rural Idahoans. A traditional rancher with a knack for surprising everyone, he was even known as one of the few cowboys to drive an electric vehicle.

In true cowboy fashion, Carl was known for standing by his principles. In 2016, he was elected to the Idaho State Senate, representing District 7 for three terms until November 2022. He served on the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee (JFAC) and as Vice-Chair of the Senate Education and Transportation Committees. A fierce advocate for Idaho students, he championed agriculture, fiscal responsibility, and public education. After the Senate, he served as Director of Intergovernmental Affairs for the Idaho Department of Education.

Carl Crabtree's legacy is one of unwavering dedication to Idaho. He embodied hard work, honesty, and heart. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn, their three children, James, Diana, and Angela, and his brothers Ray Crabtree and Lawrence Crabtree. He lived with love, purpose, and grit, leaving the world better than he found it, and will be missed on the ranch, in the halls of the Capitol, and wherever integrity matters.

A Celebration of Life for Carl Crabtree will be held on Saturday, May 17th (his 73rd birthday) at 2:00 p.m. at St. Peter and Paul School Gymnaisum, located at 330 S B St, Grangeville, ID. Following the service, a reception will be held at the Grangeville Senior Citizen Center, located at 108 Grangeville Truck Rte, Grangeville, ID. This will be a time for family, friends, and colleagues to share eulogies, tributes, personal stories, and reflections on Carl's life. All are welcome to join in remembering him.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Blackmer Funeral Home, Grangeville. Send condolences to the family to blackmerfuneralhome.com.

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Published by Idaho Statesman from May 9 to May 12, 2025.