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Lawrence Crabtree Obituary
Larry was born November 4, 1943, in Albany, California, to Lawrence "Bud" and Faith Devine Crabtree. His family moved to Chico, California, in the mid-1940s, where they farmed alfalfa and almonds.
Larry attended Rosedale Elementary, Chico Junior High, and Chico High School, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Crop Production from Chico State University in 1966, followed by teaching credentials from UC Davis.
Larry devoted his life to agricultural education, teaching at Sutter Union High School for 37 years and mentoring more than 3,600 students.
After retiring, he continued for 17 years as an Agriculture Department Consultant. His programs were recognized nationwide, and his honors included Agriculture Teacher State Hall of Fame, Master Teacher Award, Honorary American Farmer, Yuba-Sutter Farm Bureau Distinguished Award, and Distinguished Alumni of Chico State.
A gentle giant with a witty sense of humor, Larry believed in hard work, optimism, and making goals attainable. His greatest pride was his family.
He is survived by his wife, Vera; sons, Tim (Debbie), Chris (Amy), and Joe; daughters, Wendy (Mike), Deniece, and Shirel (JR); 12 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Dan, Charlie, and Eileen; and lifelong friend Dave.
Graveside Service will be held Friday, January 30, 2026, at 11:00am, Glen Oaks Memorial Park 11115 Midway Chico, CA 95928.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Larry Crabtree "Seeds of Success" memorial scholarship. Details will soon be available through the Crabtree Family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Lawrence Crabtree
Jenny Filter Rocca
February 4, 2026
So God made an Ag teacher....
He needed someone willing to promote development, acceptance, growth, achievement, and self worth in a classroom that noticed students´ gifts they were otherwise afraid to show, and see the potential in students they don´t see in themselves. (Excerpt by Sarah Welty)
God made an amazing Ag Teacher, Farmer, Mentor, and friend. I am so thankful that you were my Ag teacher and later a dear friend. I have so many wonderful FFA memories that made my highschool years so special. Thank you for all all the times you helped me with my record books and officer duties. I could always count on you. You helped me achieve all my goals in FFA. You taught me so much over the years. I always enjoyed our chats and visits. Now my son is also enjoying his FFA career and we know you would be proud. We also love raising pigs, you also shared a love for them too, Thank you Mr.Crabtree. Hugs and love till we meet again soon.
Love Always,
Jenny Filter Rocca and Family
Sutter Union Class of 2000
Kerry William Palm
February 1, 2026
He was a good teacher. I had him at Sutter High School 1979
Brenda Lowe- Brooks
January 31, 2026
Mr. Crabtree was my favorite teacher. He was do kind and helpful to me throughout highschool. I was on the agronomy team in FFA and Mr. Crabtree always cheered me on and encouraged me to apply for scholarships. My condolences to his family. He was wonderful. Class of 81.
Michael Halldorson
January 28, 2026
So sorry to hear. Larry was a wonderful classmate and a pleasure to work with on the Chico Class of 1961 Reunion Committee. Larry was the voice of reason and he will be missed.
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Rick Murphy
January 27, 2026
Mr.Crabtree was my basic ag, He stepped aside and let miss Lopez take his place. He was good at what he did at Sutter High School.
Jim Looper
January 26, 2026
At the time, I did not know how fortunate I was to be placed at Sutter High School for my student teaching. My first day meeting Mr. Crabtree, I knew something was very special about him. I owe my past 29 years of Ag teaching to him. I could have never asked for a better master teacher. He is missed by many, but his legacy will live on for many many years!!!
Dan Wilder
January 25, 2026
The greatest man I´ve ever had the pleasure to call my friend. Never did he not have time to speak to me. Inspired me to become who I am today. Every time I drive to Sutter High school I think of him. You truly were one of a kind Mr Crabtree. You will truly be missed by thousand of us. Rest untill we meet again.
Lorin Grahn
January 24, 2026
Larry and I came to SUHS the same year. We were together as teachers for 18 years. We had many great memories both at Sutter and in various hunting trips. He will be missed. My condolences to the family. Lorin Grahn.
Amy Manville
January 24, 2026
So sorry to hear of the passing of your Father Larry. Tim & Family, we are thinking of you and if you need anything, please reach out. Sending lots of love and hugs to you!!! Love, The Manville Family
Claudia Myers Higby
January 23, 2026
Larry,Larry there are so many memories from high school I wouldn´t know where to begin. There was a bunch of us that ran around together we had so much clean fun. You will be missed by all of us. RIP my friend.
Susan and Bill Shaul
January 23, 2026
It was an honor to work and laugh with Larry. He is missed.
Jacquelyn Tatro (Canty)
January 23, 2026
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Crabtree´s passing. He was more than a teacher - he was a mentor, an inspiration, and a steady presence for so many young lives. The influence he had on his students will continue to live on through the lessons he taught and the lives he shaped. What an incredible human and I feel we were all very lucky to know him. Sending comfort and strength to the family.
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