John A. Crow

John A. Crow, 100, left this life for his Heavenly home on August 15, 2013. John went to share his new home with his beloved wife of 75 years, Marie. Their union was blessed by 3 children, Sharon (Allen) Finchum of London, Ohio, Suzanne Sowers of McArthur, Ohio and Gary A. (Letha) Crow of Elyria, Ohio; seven grandchildren, Mande Sowers, Susette Robinette, Eric Finchum, Kimberly Roberson, Bret Crow, Lisha Manuel, Carene Crow; ten great grandchildren and one great great granddaughter on the way.

John was preceded by son-in-law, John M. Sowers Jr.; parents, Clara and Ralph Crow; seven brothers; three sisters and is survived by two sisters, Alice Graves and Juanita Landy.

John devoted his life to his family, community and church. He was the last surviving Charter Member of the F.O.E. #2279 in McArthur. John was also active in politics. At the age of 23, he was the youngest Mayor in the State of Ohio. Later he was treasurer of Vinton County for 12 years, during this time he also owned the Firestone Store and the Marathon Station in McArthur and then was the treasurer for the State of Ohio until his retirement.

While a member of the F.O. E., he held various offices, including president of the state and local, state father of the year, grandfather of the year, some district, state and national offices and was member of the Eagle Hall of Fame and received the award of Merit.

John was a past member of the First Christian Church in McArthur. In his later years he attended the Alexander Presbyterian Church of Albany. His church and the new friends he made were a great comfort to him after the loss of his wife.

John also belonged to the Delta Lodge #207 F&AM in McArthur where he had been a Master Mason and loyal member of the Masons Fraternity for 70 years.

John “Poppy” to his family will be missed and always remembered with love. When you lose a part of the circle, you use all your faith, knowing in your heart, you will meet again in that blessed home on high.

Funeral services will be held 11 A.M., Wednesday, August 21, 2013 in the Garrett-Cardaras Funeral Home, 201 W. High St., McArthur, with Rev. Robert Pollock officiating. Interment will be in Elk Cemetery, McArthur. Friends may call at the funeral home on Tuesday, from 5-8 P.M. where an Eagles service will be held at 7 P.M. and a Masonic service will be held at 7:30 P.M.

Please sign his online guestbook at www.cardaras.com