Chad Michael Crawford, 52, of rural Roanoke, passed away on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at his home.

Born on August 27, 1974, in Columbia City, Indiana, he was a son of Gene L. and Kandy K. (Snepp) Crawford. Growing up in Columbia Twp., Whitley County, he completed Columbia Twp Elementary School and graduated from Columbia City High School in 1993.

After high school, Chad entered the skilled trades, becoming a service technician for EcoWater Systems in Huntington. Later, he moved to Glosson Food Service in Fort Wayne as a technician.

In addition to raising a daughter, Chad enjoyed riding ATV and, in the winter, snowmobiling. He made winter trips to Michigan's Upper Peninsula for better snow and longer trails. At home, he was usually found in the garage tinkering with his 1983 Jeep CJ-7. During the warmer months, he liked to attend the area car shows. Fond of cats, he leaves behind Luna.

Surviving are a daughter, Ella A. Crawford of Fort Wayne, his father, Gene Crawford of Columbia City; and siblings, Brandon Crawford, Wade (Cara) Crawford of South Whitley, and Abbey Atkinson of Columbia City;

He was preceded in death by his mother, Kandy Crawford.

Chad desired no services. Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City,