Mieko Crabtree

Mieko Crabtree, 74, passed away on October 22, 2025, from complications following a surgical procedure.
She was born in Kadena, Okinawa, on May 9, 1951 and was the oldest of four siblings. In 1965, at the age of 15, along with her mother, sister, and brother, Mieko made the trip from Okinawa to Cheyenne, Wyoming.
After graduating from Cheyenne High School, she met and married her husband of 36 years, Robert (Bob) Crabtree, II. They later moved to Pocatello, Idaho to be near family and raise their two beautiful daughters.
As a homemaker, Mieko not only kept busy with her daughters various activities, but in 1986, she became a U.S. citizen. Something she had worked hard for and was very proud of. A master gardener, Mieko had won many awards for her stunning landscape creations, one of which included a koi fish pond, bridge, and waterfall. She was a valued employee at the H.J. Heinz Co. facility in Pocatello, where she was known for her diligent work ethic and cheerful demeanor and recognized for having over 9 years of perfect attendance.
After the passing of her husband, Mieko moved to Texas to be near family. Showing by example what it means to devote oneself to loved ones, she spent much of her time as the primary caregiver for her mom.
Those who knew Mieko would agree that she was not only beautiful, but funny, generous, and creative. She had a great sense of humor and infectious laugh. With a family who likes to play jokes (cutting pie unevenly on purpose), play games (Boom Boom Balloon), and tell stories, past and present, having Mieko there always made those moments more memorable.
Her generosity knew no bounds. She gave freely, both time and treasure, without expecting anything in return.
Mieko's creative spirit was visible in her many hobbies throughout the years. Whether it was making ski hats on her knitting machines, crafting various items or making her famous pumpkin rolls, which she would sell hundreds at the yearly local craft fair; toll painting, crocheting, gardening, whatever she tried, she excelled at.
Some other notable mentions about Mieko. Staying healthy and fit was important to her and she could be seen walking miles around her neighborhood. An innate organizer, she thrived on creating order and harmony. She also loved cooking. Family and friends always looked forward to her hosting any occasion and she was always prepared to feed an army.
The lights of Mieko's life were her family members, who meant the world to her. She is survived and lovingly remembered by her two daughters, Aimee (James) Crabtree and Mindee (Randy) Fox. Her role as a grandmother was one she cherished deeply with her beloved grandchildren: Gage Fox, Charisma (Austin) Fox, Dylan Kennedy, and Savannah Kennedy.
She was especially excited for the arrival of her first great-grandchild, Maria Mieko Fox, in a few short months.
Mieko's sisters, Setsuko (Randy) Behrns and Nancy (Lorri) Jefferson, have lost not only a sibling, but a true friend with her passing. Her nieces, Tammy (Johnny) Behrns and Jamee (Orlando) Behrns; her nephew, Zachariah Jefferson; and great-nephew, Tristan Behrns, will hold dear the love and joy she imparted.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob; mother, Kiyoko Laraby; and brother, Eiji Yokoda.
As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate Mieko's loving and generous spirit. Her final act of kindness was to give the gift of life through organ and tissue donation.
Mieko was our example of family, honor, love, and sacrifice. To have known her was a blessing, and though her passing came too soon, the memories she created will continue to bloom in the hearts of those who loved her.
She will be dearly missed.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that charitable donations be made in the memory of Mieko Crabtree to The Hermann Park Conservancy Japanese Garden in Houston, Texas or to LifeGift.
Graveside services to take place at a later date.