John W. Crooks

John Ward Crooks passed peacefully holding the loving hand of his wife Sandy to be with his Lord and Savior about 7:30 AM Tuesday morning March 2, 2021. John was born September 26, 1929 in Indianapolis, Indiana to Katherine Marie (Sykes) and John French Crooks both deceased.

John had many loves and passions in life. He was a proud graduate of Purdue University and achieved a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Management in 1952 and was a member of Sigma Nu social fraternity. He was a lifelong Purdue supporter with a passion for everything Purdue especially the men’s football program. Soon after graduation, John served his country during the Korean War, and achieved the rank of Sergeant First Class in the US Army. His time in Korea and Japan were some of his fondest memories.

Upon returning home he married Phyllis I Crooks, deceased and soon they were blessed with three children: Stephen F, Mark B, and Michelle A. After a short time at Western Electric, John became an employee of Eli Lilly and Company where he was an immensely proud employee for 40 years. John spent many years at “Lilly” recruiting PHD level biochemists, many of whom achieved great things at Lilly. He served in several recruiting related organizations and held the president position of the College Placement Council from 1985-86. John was a lifelong tennis player and fan and enjoyed traveling abroad in his retirement.

John was a lifelong Presbyterian and a longtime member of Second Presbyterian Church of Indianapolis, IN.

On April 9, 2011 John married the love of his life Sandra (Sandy) Morgan. They were always together enjoying life and living in their cherished community of Britton Falls, in Fishers Indiana. John and Sandy were engaged in many activities including all kinds of card games with friends and neighbors. John was dedicated to his exercise and could be seen at least twice a week in the gym at the Britton Falls Chateau.

John is survived by his beloved wife Sandy, his children, and their spouses Stephen (Valerie); Mark; and Michelle Quick (Doug). Grandchildren Alexandria and Emily (Stephen); Benjamin and Natalie (Mark); and Gabrielle and Brandon (Michelle). Also, his brother William of Grand Rapids Michigan and wife Deanna.

A celebration of life will be held Thursday afternoon March 11th at 3:00 PM at Leppert Mortuary, Nora Chapel, 740 East 86th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46240 with a family attended cryptside service to follow at Second Presbyterian Church’s Memorial Gardens on 7700 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46260. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to: Marion County Master Gardener Association at: https://indymcmga.org/ or, if preferred, to Purdue University. Masks are required and social distancing exercised. Online condolences available at: www.leppertmortuary.com