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BORN
1933
DIED
2025
Mickey Crater Obituary
July 18, 1933 - June 19, 2025
Mickey P. Crater, 91, of Wenatchee, Washington was born on July 18, 1933 in Mitchell, South Dakota. Mickey was a woman known for her warmth, generosity, and sharp wit. On March 2, 1952, she married George Crater, Sr. and together with whom she built a full life until his death in 1997. They raised four childrenTony Crater (wife, Nancy), Doreen Crater, DeWayne Crater (wife, Karen), and George Crater, Jr.
After years as a stay-at-home mother, Mickey went on to work as a bookkeeper for a few Wenatchee businesses. Her true passion was creating a home filled with love, laughter, and hospitality. There was always room for one more at the table and she never hesitated to open her door to others.
Mickey had a commitment to service displayed in many ways: she served as a Room Mother for her children's classrooms; a Den Mother for Cub Scouts; was also a former Worthy Matron of Eastern Star and volunteered with that organization for many years; and served as a CASA Advocate, working for the betterment of children in the Wenatchee community.
Her favorite past time was playing cards, especially pinochle. She often said, "I'd rather play cards than eat"--and she meant it. Mickey was a patient and joyful teacher of the game, always focusing on fun rather than competition. Playing cards with friends and family was one of the great joys of her life.
For the past thirty years, Mickey spent winters in Arizona where she built a second community of close friends, many met over a deck of cards. She was also passionate about travel, exploring the world throughout her life and looking forward to her next planned cruise this coming October.
Mickey was preceded in death by her husband, George Crater, Sr.; her parents, Reed and Florence Kinyon; and her brothers, Eugene Kinyon and Marvel Kinyon. She is survived by her four children, five grandchildren, and five great grandchildren.
A celebration of Mickey's life is planned for what would have been her 92nd birthday: July 18th, 2025 at 11 a.m. at the Veteran's Hall, 1206 N. Wenatchee Avenue. A luncheon will follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Mickey's honor be made to the Wenatchee Veterans Hall.
Mickey will be missed. Her spirit lives on in the stories shared around the table, the games played in her memory, and the hearts she helped shape.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mickey Crater
Lonny Kinyon
July 20, 2025
Mickey was my aunt and will miss her very much. The card games were great fun as was going to the rec center almost daily. I have been seeing her yearly in Arizona and this just doesn't seem real. Mickey also put on some great reunions in Plankinton, in 2017 and 2023. I extend my deepest sympathies to her family and friends. Love you Mickey
Vernon and Tammy Heidinger
July 18, 2025
We have known Mickey for a long time. Playing cards were played when they were back in South Dakota. Loved getting her gifts of pot holders when she came back to SD. Mickey will be missed by many friends and family. Mickey give Big George a hug up there when you get there...
Lil DeCola, Kevin Brown and Patty Anderson
July 16, 2025
We met Mickey 8 o years ago -- playing cards, of course. My son, Kevin, always claimed Mickey as his partner when playing progressive hand and foot, and they usually always won. We used to tease Mickey that Kevin was her "boy toy." We are going to miss playing cards, listening to music and spending time with Mickey. Losing her has left a deep, sad hole in our hearts. But I know Mickey is up in Heaven teaching Saint Peter and all the angels how to play one card game or another
Lil DeCola
July 16, 2025
I am not sure why the photos did not post.
Lil DeCola
July 16, 2025
I took these pictures a couple years ago. I thought Mickey's family might like to see them.
Lil DeCola
July 16, 2025
I have known and loved Mickey for the past 8 or 9 years. We met playing cards -- how else? My son, Kevin, claimed her for his partner whenever we played progressive hand and foot because he said she was the first person to ever play like he did -- and they usually always won. We used to tease Mickey that Kevin was her "boy toy." Mickey was happiest when playing cards unless she was spending time with her family. I am so glad the family will have the memories and photos of their Alaskan cruise for her 90th birthday. There is a deep, sad void in our lives knowing we won't hear her laugh or see her infectious smile again. I know you're up in Heaven, Mickey, teaching Saint Peter and all the angels how to play pinochle and progressive hand and foot!
Lynn Johnson
July 15, 2025
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Annette Johnson
July 13, 2025
We had so much fun playing pinochle with Mickey! She was such a character and so fun and happy all of the time. We will miss her!!
Elvira Muselli
July 10, 2025
My sincere Condolences to MICKY´s family. I personally will miss her much. She had a very generous and kind heart.
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