Marlin "Dick" Crawford, 85, of Columbia City, died peacefully at Miller's Merry Manor, Columbia City, on Friday, October 23, 2020, where he had been a resident since April 2020.

He was born on October 25, 1934, in Whitley County, Indiana, a son of the late George Cecil and Gladys (Traster) Crawford. His formative years were spent in Columbia Twp. and then graduating from Coesse High School in 1952.

On September 4, 1954, he married Beverly Ann Shoda. They have always made their home in Columbia City. Beverly died on December 5, 2019.

He began his work career with the former Blue Bell, Columbia City, and was a self-employed carpenter. After working a few years with Precision Plastics, Columbia City, he took a job with International Harvester – Navistar, Fort Wayne, where he had over 20 years of service. Throughout his work career, he also assisted his father with the family farm.

A skilled carpenter, he enjoyed making Red Barns. Throughout his life, he liked to fish, taking an annual trip to northern Wisconsin. After retiring, he would take his fifth-wheel trailer to Gulf Shores, Alabama, where the couple would spend the winter. His joy in life was his children and, eventually, grandchildren.

He was a member of the Oak Grove Church of God.

He is survived by his children, Randal (Kathy) Crawford and Marla Crawford, both of Columbia City; grandchildren, Abby (Bryce) Emerick, Eric (Rachel) Crawford and Cory Blake; six great-grandchildren; a brother, John (Judy) Crawford of Florida; and two sisters, Donna Belle Chromer of Garrett and Mary Lou Lahman, Columbia City.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by brothers, Phil, Gerald, Cecil, and Jack Crawford; and sisters, Betty Lawrence and Dot Cox.

A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. Monday at the Oak Grove Cemetery, Raber, and Keister Road, Columbia City.

Preferred memorials are to the Oak Grove Church of God.