Rodney “Rod” H. Crawford

Rodney “R0d” H. Crawford, 76, of Onaway, died Sunday, July 21, 2024, at Horizon Senior Living in Standish. The son of Ralph and Joyce (Glaspie) Crawford, Rod was born in Flint December 24, 1947. Raised in Vernon, he graduated from high school and went on to enlist in the U.S. Army where he served until his honorable discharge in 1973. Rod married Judy Cramer February 3, 1973, in Vernon and they made their home in Holly before moving to northern Michigan in 1986.

A heavy equipment operator by trade, Rod went on to become a successful businessman in the Onaway area. Using his skills and knowledge as an equipment operator, he established the Allis Park Landfill and later built Stoney Links Golf Course which he and his wife owned and operated for many years. Rod had a strong vision for business opportunities, courage and determination to launch his new businesses, and the work ethic, resilience and tenacity to run his businesses.

Though he worked long hours, Rod also found time to do things he enjoyed. He enjoyed fishing the local lakes and rivers and was an avid Michigan white-tailed deer hunter. He enjoyed hunting trips to Colorado with his brother to hunt elk and mule deer and loved spending time at his property, “Corn Hill.” Rod loved playing golf and shooting pool and, of course, was on the Stoney Links Men’s Golf League and Men’s Pool League for many years. One of his favorite places was the corner barstool at the 19th Hole where he could often be found drinking a cold Bud Light and occasionally singing along to a favorite song. Rod loved his music, singing and karaoke. 

Rod will be remembered for his mischievous chuckle and the twinkle in his eye that had many guessing what he was up to. He will be remembered for being a loyal friend who loved spending time with his “dogs” – “Son Dog” and “Blondie.” He will be remembered for being hardworkin

g, stubborn, caring and for making sure his family was taken care of.

Surviving is Rod’s wife of 51 years, Judy of Onaway; sons, Chad (Becky) of Key Largo, Florida and Randy (Angie) of Onaway; daughters, Becky Watson (John Stump) of Cheboygan and Mandy Crawford (Paul Basgall) of Durand; as well as 10 grandchildren, Crystal, Christopher, Sarah, Makayla, Nick, Ashely, Alexis, Jenna, Landen and Barrett. He also leaves his brother, Ric (Ruth) of Corunna; sisters, Jo (Ken) Marks of Vernon and Deb (Dennis) Judd of Corunna; and his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Ben.

Visitation will be held at Chagnon Funeral Home Friday, July 26, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the funeral service beginning at 11 a.m. with burial to follow at the Crawford Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy please consider a donation in memory of Rod to Careline Hospice, 6770 Dixie Hwy., Suite 102, Clarkston, MI 48346.

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