Thomas Wheeler Crawford

Thomas Wheeler Crawford, age 79, passed away peacefully while under hospice care on Sunday, July 19, 2026, in his home with his family.

Tom was born December 14, 1946, in Klamath Falls, Oregon. He proudly served in the United States Army fresh out of high school. Tom was a Sergeant in the US Army from 1967-1969. He took part in the Battle of Dak To during the Vietnam War. This was one of the 173rd Airborne Division’s missions in November of 1967. The battle was intense and the fourth deadliest of the Vietnam War. During his military service, Tom was awarded two Purple Hearts, two Bronze Stars with Vs for valor and two Air medals. In a generous act of compassion, Tom had previously gifted some of the medals to a dying young boy who was quite enamored with the Airborne Division. Tom said this young man probably knew more about the paratroopers than he did!

Tom found great joy in karaoke, where he created countless memories and made many lifelong friendships.

Tom is survived by his sisters, Kim (Rod) Shakleford and Debbie (Dan) O’Connell; sons from his first marriage, Michael, Steven, and William; children from his second marriage, Jennifer (Jay) Seidel and Gary Sutherlin; as well as many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other extended family and friends.  

He was preceded in death by his wife, Aquila Crawford; daughter, Julie Cain; granddaughter, Keley Cain; parents, Richard and Janet Beebe; grandparents, Ruby and Hilbert Beebe, Lola Evelyn and James Harvey Wheeler; cousin, Donald Krache; and his cat, Mr. Cuddles.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Tunnels to Towers Foundation.