John Allen Crees

8/20/1942 - 1/28/2026

Quaker Hill - John A. Crees, 83, passed away peacefully Jan. 28, 2026, leaving behind a life defined by devotion, adventure and quiet excellence.

A beloved husband and father, John was the steady center of his family's world - dependable, thoughtful and deeply devoted. He was a loyal friend to many, known for his wisdom, dry humor and the desire to take care of those he loved most.

Professionally, John enjoyed a distinguished career as an electrical engineer, where his sharp mind and meticulous approach earned the respect of colleagues and peers alike. His work reflected the values he lived by: precision, integrity, and a commitment to doing things right. Earlier in life, John proudly served in the U.S. Merchant Marines, the United States Navy and as a member of the Preston Fire Department. His military and community service instilled in him a lifelong sense of discipline and duty, as well as a love for the sea that never left him. In his years beyond the uniform, he found his greatest joy on the water - boating whenever he could or simply relaxing at the pier. He also cherished travel, approaching new places with the same curiosity and appreciation that marked all corners of his life.

Above all else, John will be remembered for the way he showed up - for his family, his friends, and anyone lucky enough to know him. His legacy lives on in the lives he shaped, the lessons he modeled, and the love he gave freely and without condition.

John was predeceased by his brother Donald Crees; and his brother-in-law Larry Fenton. He is survived by his wife, Rustie Crees; his sister, Sandra Felton of Fairplay, N.C.; sister-in-law Donna Crees of Marion Ill.; son Jack Crees (Kathy) of Canterbury; son Christian Case (Hope) of Montville; Michael Wisniewski (Sam) of Leesport, Pa.; daughters, Zondra Bishop (Waylon) of Temple, Ga.; daughter Tawnya Eastman (Alan) of Fishers Island, N.Y.; seven beloved grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. The family wishes to extend a special note of gratitude to John's son-in-law, Alan Eastman, who spent many days and nights in the hospital with John just to keep him company and talk with him. You are our champion!

John will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Donations may be made in memory of John Crees to the Quaker Hill Fire Company, 17 Old Colchester Road, Quaker Hill, CT 06375.