Christopher C. Crew, 18 Aug 1958 - 03 Dec 2020

CREW, BOOTS, AKIN, KRUGER, SCHOTT

Posted By: Sarah Witte (email)
Date: 12/16/2020 at 10:14:28

Christopher C. Crew, 62, of Grundy Center, formerly of Norway, Iowa, passed away Thursday, Dec. 3, 2020, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. He was born Aug. 18, 1958, in Iowa City, the son of Francis "Fritz" and Darlene (Boots) Crew. His boyhood home was in West Branch. Christopher graduated from Clear Creek High School and went on to graduate from the University of Iowa in 1982. He married Valerie Akin in 1982.

Christopher was commissioned as an officer in the Armor branch of the Army and served in Europe, where he received multiple awards. He was honored to be the first brigade to receive the M1 Abrahms Tank and leader of the "Abrahms Angels," who demonstrated the capabilities of this tank. His fellow servicemen say he was a professional who was a constant advocate for his soldiers, and always remained true to his convictions. He served his country and the United States Army proudly.

Christopher was the devoted father of three children, Vanessa (Kody) Kruger of Grundy Center, Tyler (Emma) Crew of Ewa Beach, Hawaii, and John Crew of Reinbeck.

He was a lifelong learner and enjoyed reading, rock collecting and being involved with his family. His oldest son followed him into military service. Although he had health issues toward the end, he remained in good spirits with a good attitude.

In addition to his children, Christopher is survived by his mother, Darlene Crew of Coralville; brother, Kirk (Karen) Crew of Williamsburg; and longtime friend, Valerie Crew (Allan Schott) of Dike.

He was preceded in death by his father, Francis "Fritz" Crew.

There will be a Celebration of Life in the ppring. Burial will be in the family plot in West Branch. Memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences may be left at www.iowacremation.com under obituaries.

Published in The Gazette on December 13, 2020.