Ronald Crews

Ronald E. Crews, 82, of Springfield, died January 6, 2008, in St. John's Hospital, Springfield. He was born April 14, 1925, to Robert and Thelma Bloodough Crews in Neosho, Missouri.

Ron graduated from Manley High School in Chicago, Illinois, then served in the U.S. Navy as Seaman First Class during WWII. He received his BS in Civil Engineering from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, Indiana, in 1948, where he was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha. Ron was a registered Professional Engineer and Land Surveyor.

Ron retired with Emeritus status in 1986 from Missouri State University where he was Director of the Physical Plant. Prior to working at the University, he was Director of Public Works and Assistant City Manager in Joplin, Missouri, andalso had worked for the Missouri Highway Department. He had many hobbies, including fishing, woodworking and sports car restoration. He was an Amateur Radio Operator (W0RIP).

Ron was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Robert Shelby Crews; and a step-sister, Ruth Pendergraft Tabb.

Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Bernadine, of the home; a son, David Crews and his wife Gail, Walnut Grove, Missouri; a daughter, Rhonda Wilson and her husband David, Carthage, Missouri; a daughter, Jenny Crews, Springfield, Missouri; a brother, Charles Crews, Tulsa, Oklahoma; a half-brother, Joe Pendergraft, Florida; many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; other beloved relatives; and friends--all who will remember Ron for his tremendous wit and wonderful sense of humor.

The family wishes to thank all of the kind staff members at St. John's Hospital who helped Ron during the past week.

A memorial service is scheduled for 10:30 a.m., Saturday, January 12, at Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home, 500 E. Walnut, Springfield, Missouri. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given in Ron's memory to the Missouri State University Foundation, 300 S. Jefferson, Springfield, Missouri 65806. Online condolences can be shared at www.hhlohmeyer.com.