Kenny Crabtree

1955 - 2026

Kenny Crabtree

11/6/1955 - 1/27/2026

Kenny Crabtree of Toledo, Ohio, passed peacefully in the early morning hours of January 27, 2026. He was born on November 6, 1955, and grew up in the Oregon area. During his years at Clay High School, Kenny formed connections that would stay with him for a lifetime.

Kenny is survived by his wife, Karen M. Crabtree; his children, Erin Crabtree, Gus Crabtree (Tabby), Travis Crabtree (Emily), and Ayla Crabtree (Jay Keaton); and Karen's children, Jessica Vandoren (Jeremy), Jami Sharma (Matt), and Richard Spafford (Marina). He is survived by his father, James West; and his siblings, Deb M. Connally (Butch), Bob A. West, Beth A. Short (Mike), Cindy R. Pettit (Bub), Jim W. West (Misty), Emma J. West, and Bryan A. West.

Kenny leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews, as well as grandsons and granddaughters who brought him endless pride and joy.

He was preceded in death by his loving mother, Florence West; and his brother, Denny Crabtree.

When giving directions, Kenny would say, "Always forward, never straight." If you followed that, you'd end up exactly where you needed to be-much like life with Kenny. Rules were more like suggestions. Often barefoot and always authentic, bell-bottom jeans weren't a style choice; they were simply who he was.

A self-described "jack of all trades," Kenny worked nearly every hands-on job imaginable. Woodworking was closest to his heart, and the many pieces he crafted will live on in the homes of those he loved.

Kenny lived simply. The extra never mattered, but making sure his family had what they needed mattered most. Family filled his heart. Campfires warmed his soul. Pop loved fishing with his sons and grandsons, sharing quiet moments that needed few words. He was the uncle with candy and sparklers, turning ordinary days into memories.

A true hippie at heart, Kenny found peace at home, surrounded by family. A wise guy and trickster, his quick humor often landed just late enough to make it even better. Through the love he gave, Kenny lives on.

A Celebration of Life honoring Kenny will be held on March 8, 2026, at Fire Station #3, on Bayshore Road. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a ceremony honoring his life at 3:00 p.m.