John Robert Crouse

John Robert Crouse, age 72, passed away suddenly on November 8, from unrelated health issues while recovering from a recent surgery. A lifelong resident of Annapolis, MD, John was a distinguished and active member of several local organizations, including St. Mary’s Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, and the Wheels from the Past car club of Edgewater, MD.

While still quite young, John suffered a tragic and life-altering injury that left him partially paralyzed at the age of 15. He spent many months healing, recovering, and rehabilitating, but was ultimately able to return to a somewhat normal life, and complete his education at Annapolis High School, where he met his future wife Joann, with whom he spent 52 years. As husband and wife, they served as foster parents giving love and support to a number of needy children. Their son Jonathan completed their early family, and four years ago gave John and Joann a wonderful grandson as a new outlet for their love and parental energies, though in competition for attention with their two Yorkies, Jackie and Jinger.

Despite the physical challenges of working from a wheelchair, much of John’s time was spent pursuing his interest in cars, which led to employment first at a local car dealership, and then as the chief mechanic and operator of his own auto repair business, which he ran for 17 years. During the same time he became actively involved with St. Mary’s Catholic church, engaging in years of volunteer and charitable service through them and affiliated organizations, which continued for a period of over 30 years. This eventually led to opportunities to officially work for the church full time in a variety of roles in the HR department that he pursued for about 17 years until his recent retirement, returning to the pursuit of his interest in cars through several restoration projects, while continuing to respond to informal opportunities to help others in need of charitable assistance, or automotive favors or advice.

In addition to his wife Joann, son Jonathan (Amy), and grandson Calan, he is survived by a brother, Tom (Sandra), of Annapolis) and two sisters, Donna Claytor (Gary), and Sharon Chandler of Richmond, VA.

Visitation will be held at John M. Taylor Funeral Home, located at 147 Duke of Gloucester St, Annapolis, MD, 21401 on Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 1 to 3 and 5 to 7 pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St John Neumann Church, 620 N Bestgate Rd, Annapolis, MD, 21401, on November 14, 2025, at 9 am. (for those that wish to attend services virtually please see https://sjnlivestream.livecontrol.tv/b5289f8b) Interment Saint Mary 845 West Street Annapolis, Maryland 21401.

In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to the Wounded Warrior Project, or other charity of your choice affiliated with the needs of US service veterans.