Robert "Bob" Crabtree

To view a LiveStream of Bob's Celebration of Life Service, please click on the following link: LiveStream for Ellendale United Methodist Church

Robert Marlyn Crabtree was born to Charles Henry and Beulah Crabtree on October 26th, 1948. He grew up on their family farm in Ellendale, MN, alongside his four sisters. “Bobby” loved his home so much that he rarely wanted to leave. His family, neighbors, cousins, and animals brought him so much joy and many cherished memories.

Bob met his wife, Leah Wiersma, one evening when he was singing in a men's quartet at her church. He drove a few people home that night, but he made sure he dropped her off last. Shortly after Leah graduated from nurses’ training, they were married and settled on the Crabtree family farm. Soon they welcomed their three children: Joshua James, Eric Charles, and Emily Ann.

When health challenges compelled Bob to leave farm work behind, Bob got a degree in broadcasting at Brown Institute. This degree eventually took their family to New Ulm, MN, so he could work for KNUJ radio as the farm news director. In the next few years, Bob tried multiple jobs before finding his perfect-fit at Brown County Rural Electric. Here his co-workers became friends that felt like family. The United Methodist Church of New Ulm was Bob and Leah’s church home for many years. Here Bob served on the church board, sang in the choir, and led the worship praise team. It was here that they met many dear friends, including Dennis Santa Kogo, who they now consider family.

In retirement, Bob and Leah spent some years in Brainerd, rediscovering “farm life” and spending time with their son Eric and his family. Their picturesque driveway, perfectly kept garden, and quaint horse pasture were a grandchild’s dream. Many good memories were made here as they hosted family events and grandchild sleepovers. Later Bob and Leah moved to Hawley, MN, to be near their daughter Emily and her family. Here they have been devoted to the sports and music events of their youngest grandchildren. In his last weeks of life, Bob and Leah were blessed by the care of nurses in the hospice cottage in Luverne, MN. Here they were near to their son Josh and his family. Their many visits, meal offerings and ongoing love and support were a treasure.

Bob’s positive and humble attitude made a difference for many. He was better than most at seeing the best in others, and he would do what he could to bring joy to the world. He loved singing and serving in church. He supported his kids and grandkids in their various endeavors. He loved gardening in the sunshine and putting in a good day of hard work. Bob enjoyed a slow drive in the country to admire the land and check on the crops. And he would rave about a good home-cooked meal (that cost so much less than a meal in a restaurant). He reveled in a good laugh, and no one made him laugh quite like his cousins. Those that knew him will always remember his contagious laugh and genuine smile that spread from ear to ear while his eyes twinkled. 

Bob loved his family dearly, most importantly his wife of 54 years, Leah, who was his best friend and dependable partner in so many life projects and challenges; Also his son Josh (Emily) Crabtree and their children Connor (Cicely and their son Crew), Madison (Austin), and Colby; His late son Eric (Bridget) Crabtree and their daughters Lauren and Samina; His daughter Emily (Mike) Olson and their children Lily and Sam; and his “adopted” son Dennis Santa Kogo. Bob is also survived by his beloved sisters Allie Larsen, Becky Larsen, and Kathy (Jeff) Wayne, as well as many beloved cousins, in-laws, and friends.

Bob is reunited in heaven with his son, Eric, his parents, Charles and Beulah, his sister, Millie, and his niece Peggy, as well as many relatives that were very dear to him.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to:

Hospice of Sanford Luverne - PO Box 623, Luverne, MN 56156

OR

Eric Crabtree Family Memorial Fund - Held at LACF, PO Box 623, Luverne, MN 56156

Bob brought so much kindness to this world. In honor of his kindness, his family would like you to go out into the world and engage in an act of kindness in his memory.