Oct. 7, 1928 ~ June 7, 2026
Malvin Franklin Crawford, Jr., affectionately known as Junior, J.R., June, Dad, and Granddad, passed away peacefully at home Sunday, June 7, 2026, at the age of 97, just two miles from where he was born.
Junior was born on October 7, 1928, on the family ranch on Wilson Creek near Meeker, Colorado, to Ruth Willetta (Caldwell) Crawford and Malvin William Crawford. He spent his childhood on the ranch and attended White Rock School on upper Strawberry Creek before graduating from Meeker High School in 1946.
Following graduation, Junior remained on the family ranch and married Patsy Jane Purcell. Together they welcomed five children: Lonnie Jay (Bonnie), Danny Ray (Mary), Kelly Glen (Vicki), Stanley J (Vicki), and Lori Ann (Aaron) Smith.
Throughout his life, Junior was known for his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. After leaving the ranch, he worked in a variety of industries and owned several businesses, including the Storm King Trailer Court in Glenwood Springs, a milk delivery service, and a riding stable. He later returned to Meeker, where he worked for Rio Blanco County, Bailey Construction, All Seasons Propane, and Samuelson True Value before retiring in his mid-eighties.
Junior enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren participate in sports. He also loved hunting, fishing, and especially team roping with his lifelong friend, E.J. Atwood.
His grandchildren, along with his faithful dog, Missy, were the center of Junior’s life. He is survived by his sister, Arlen Niles, his cousin, Lucy Jane Howey, his five children, 15 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, and many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, one sister, his former wife, Patsy Porter, two grandchildren, and one great-grandson.
Junior will be remembered for his dedication to family, his tireless work ethic, and the many friendships he built throughout his long and well-lived life. His legacy lives on through the generations of family he loved so dearly.
