Johnny Miller Crabb

1936 - 2023

Johnny Miller Crabb
March 3, 1936 - April 13, 2023
Modesto, California - John was born on March 3, 1936, in Pratt, Kansas to Wayne and Dorothea Crabb. He was the 8th of 12 children, several of whom lived with genetic deafness. John was predeceased by his parents, his siblings, and his husband, partner and soulmate of 53 years, Mel Nomann. He was known to be a gentle, loving, generous and intellectual human being, with a sharp and clever wit. He was an artistic soul, and expressed it in many ways, especially through his calligraphy. He was a student of Theology in his early life. John came to Modesto in 1961 when he was recruited to manage a new restaurant in the newly built Yosemite Lanes Bowling Alley. He retired from Stanislaus County after many years as a Financial Auditor. John was well-versed in his knowledge of antiques. He and Mel traveled world-wide meeting many friends and searching for antiques for their home, their friends, the McHenry Mansion and the McHenry Museum as well as stocking their booth at multiple antique shows. He belonged to many clubs and volunteered endlessly. John and Mel courageously lived as an openly gay couple, even fifty years ago when it was not as common as it is today. They were Political Activists for the equality of all people. They worked tirelessly with Harvey Milk in the early nineteen seventies, an American politician who was the first openly gay man to be elected to public office in California. John was devoted to Mel, his family, his friends, his favorite charities and Max, his dog. Graveside Services will be held Saturday, April 22, 2023, at 1:00 PM. Lakewood Memorial Park, everyone is invited to attend as we honor the memory of our friend. Following the service, we will gather at John's favorite Mexican Restaurant, Dos Compadres, at 3125 McHenry Avenue, Modesto, CA. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in John's name to his favorite charities; the McHenry Mansion, the McHenry Museum, or charities of your choice. Lastly, we want to acknowledge the staff at Bethel Retirement Center who provided kind and excellent care to John.