Mark D Crabtree

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mark D. Crabtree, a beloved son, brother, and friend, who left us on May 14, 2026, at the age of 65. Mark passed away peacefully at Citizens Memorial Hospital in Bolivar, Missouri, with his devoted father by his side, after a courageous battle with cancer. Mark was born on May 5, 1961, in West Plains, Missouri, to Ellis "Jim" Crabtree and Avis Jeanette Crabtree. He was a compassionate and loving individual who touched the lives of everyone he met with his warmth and kindness. Mark was predeceased by his cherished wife, Dawn Crabtree, with whom he shared nine beautiful years of marriage, and his beloved mother, Avis Jeanette Switzer. He is also preceded in death by his stepfather, Ray Switzer, his grandparents, Jim and Sarah Crabtree, Carvin and Helen Watson, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins who were dear to his heart. Mark is survived by his loving father, Ellis "Jim" Crabtree and his wife June, and his brother, James Crabtree, who will forever cherish the memories they shared together. Mark's educational journey led him to Southern Illinois University and SWIC, where he completed the HVAC program, laying the foundation for his successful career. His professional path took him to Hebron, Indiana, where he joined NIPSCO Power Plant at Schaefer Station in Wheatfield, Indiana. After dedicating nine years to NIPSCO, he returned to Granite City, Illinois, to work as a foreman on the hot strip at Granite City Steel. His career later shifted to the Local 633 Carpenters and Millwright Union, where he honed his skills as a millwright. Mark eventually earned his license in HVAC and worked in the field until his retirement in 2025. A man of many talents and interests, Mark was a proud Mason and a Shriner, actively participating in the Ainad Shriner Organization in Illinois. He found joy in simple pleasures, such as golfing and riding his motorcycle. Mark treasured his visits to Bolivar, Missouri, where he would fish with his dad on Pomme De Tare Lake. He also cherished trips to Table Rock Lake in the Ozarks, where he and his brother enjoyed fishing for bass. Mark was a passionate sports fan who never missed a game of his favorite teams, the Mizzou Tigers, St. Louis Cardinals, and St. Louis Blues. Mark's life will be celebrated and remembered at Woodlawn Cemetery, located at 1400 St. Louis Street, Edwardsville, IL. Friends and family are invited to join us as we honor the remarkable life o f a man who brought so much love and joy into the world. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Mark's memory to Cancer Research, a cause close to his heart. Mark's legacy of love, kindness, and strength will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.