Marjorie A. Crawford

Born on February 20, 1933, in Trivoli, Illinois, she was the daughter of Charles and Marie (Link) Rynearson. She married Gary D. Crawford and together they shared 53 wonderful years of marriage.

Surviving are her devoted husband, Gary, of Edwards; her children, Carol Ernst, Connie (Joe) Croegaert, Jan (Ken) Owen, Richard (Tori) Barth, Mary (Tim) Gauwitz, and Scott Crawford; as well as many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Richard Zeiler; son-in-law, Harold Ernst; granddaughter, Ashley Zeiler; brothers, Charles, Bob, and Wilbur; and sisters, Eleanor, Norma, Ella Mae, Betty, and Wilma.

It is difficult to summarize a life as full and meaningful as Marge's in just a few words, but one thing was certain: her family was the center of her world. Each and every member of her family was a source of pride and joy throughout her life.

Marge grew up on a small family farm alongside her parents and siblings. She lost her father when she was just 16 years old and her mother was deaf. Despite life's challenges, the family remained exceptionally close, creating traditions of gathering together that Marge cherished and passed on to her own children and grandchildren.

Over the years, she found great happiness in watching her family grow. Countless photographs capture her holding babies, each one treasured and loved. To her family, Marge was truly the center of their universe. She especially enjoyed holiday celebrations and organizing family gatherings of all kinds, from picnics to game nights to canoe trips. She took immense pride in the accomplishments of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and faithfully attended countless events and activities to support them.

In addition to her love for family, Marge had a remarkable talent for flower gardening. Her beautiful gardens were admired by all who saw them and were featured in published articles. Even during her final days, she remained concerned that her flowers be planted and cared for.

Marge also loved to travel. Although she did not take her first airplane ride until she was in her 50s, she eventually visited nearly every state in the country and traveled to several European countries. Among her domestic of her favorite adventures were an Alaskan cruise, a trip to Ireland and trips with her girls including fulfilling a lifelong dream of seeing the Rose Bowl Parade in person.

After starting her family at a young age, Marge earned her GED and went on to hold several office positions to help support her family. She later joined Caterpillar Inc., where she met Gary, the love of her life. She retired from Caterpillar as a machinist after many years of dedicated service. Whether at work, at home, or tending her beloved gardens, Marge was known for her strong work ethic, determination and maybe just a bit of stubbornness.

Her family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many selfless caregivers who provided Marge with compassionate and loving care during the last several months of her life.

A private family gathering was held, followed by entombment at Resurrection Mausoleum in Peoria. Davison-Fulton Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home in Peoria was entrusted with the arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to Susan G. Komen at Komen.org.

Condolences and memories may be shared at Woolsey-Wilton.com.