Samuel R. Craw

Samuel R. Craw, Sr. passed away into the Lord’s presence on January 14, 2015 at the age of 77.  Sam was born to the late Dorothy (Oswalt) and Harlan Craw on October 3, 1937 in Swanington, IN.  The family later moved to Buchanan, MI where he graduated from BuchananHigh School in 1955.  Sam then joined the Navy and served his country in the Heavy Attack Squadron (VAH-11) with an honorable discharge in 1959. On October 20, 1956 he married Alice Lorraine Lucas who preceded him in death.  Together they lived in Niles until moving to Buchanan approximately 15 years ago.  For many years, before and after living in Buchanan, Sam operated “Sam’s Motor Repair” while farming the land.  Prior to his retirement, Sam was employed at Gambles Hardware in Buchanan and Faulkner Fabricators in Berrien Springs.  After retirement, he enjoyed planting his orchard and travelling to Amish country with his special friend, Sharon Dalrymple of Buchanan.  He also dreamed of walking the entire span of the MackinawBridge which he did in 2006.  Sam was a member of the PortagePrairieUnitedMethodistChurch, Niles.  Sam was a faithful member, serving on various boards, active in VacationBibleSchool and acting as “Santa” for the Christmas activities. Sam is survived by his children: Debra (Robert) Loyd, Samuel, Jr. (Michelle), Ronald (Carla), Jennifer Fetter and Elizabeth Zinn, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, his brother Harlan (Mike) (Kay), sister Barbara Grant, and sisters in law Susan Craw and Janet Craw.  He was preceded in death by his loving wife Alice, his parents Harlan and Dorothy, his sister Patricia and his brothers Jerry and David. Celebration of his life will be at Portage Prairie United Methodist Church on January 24, 2015 at 10:30 A.M. with Pastor Rap Posnik officiating.  Family will share memories with Sam’s friends at 9:30 A.M. at the church before the Celebration of Life.  Military Honors will be provided by Buchanan American Legion Post 51.  Burial will take place at Oak Ridge Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are given to the Children’s Fund at Portage Prairie United Methodist Church, 2450 Orange Rd, Niles, MI 49120.  Arrangement have been entrusted to Swem Chapel of Buchanan.  To sign Sam’s guest book or leave a condolence message please visit our web site at www.swemchapel.com.