Delbert L. Crewse, son of the late Murve Elton and Velma Mae (Snyder) Crewse, was born December 21, 1945, in Texas County, Missouri. He departed this life on November 24, 2024, surrounded by his loving family, in Springfield, Missouri, due to injuries sustained in a UTV accident. He was 78 years, 11 months, and 3 days of age.
Delbert grew up in the Dawson area. He was a hard worker from the beginning, helping with the chores and gardening. Delbert spent the better part of his career at MODot, working road maintenance and later becoming a supervisor until he retired in 2003, after twenty-seven years of service. In addition to MODot, Delbert loved and was proud to be from Mountain Grove. He devoted twenty-five years of service to the city, including serving eighteen years as the mayor.
Delbert grew up in church and was saved and baptized at a young age. He loved the Lord. At the time of his passing, he and Elina attended Mansfield First Assembly.
Delbert graduated with the Mountain Grove High School class of 1963. Although Delbert was gifted athlete, he did not participate in high school sports but in later years enjoyed playing in several softball leagues.
In June of 1982, while at a church revival, Delbert met Elina (Dean). After a short courtship, Delbert and Elina were united in marriage on November 19, 1982.
In his spare time, Delbert enjoyed being outdoors, especially when playing golf or hunting and fishing. He was a life-long St. Louis Cardinals fan, rarely missing an opportunity to watch a game on the t.v. His greatest joy in life was spending time with Elina and his family, especially his grandchildren.
Besides his parents, Delbert was preceded in death by one sister, Wilma Turner.
Delbert is survived by his loving wife of forty-two years, Elina Crewse; three sons, Christopher Crewse, Robert Crewse and wife, Gloria, and Steven Crewse and wife, Angie; one daughter, Paula Crewse; seven grandchildren, Cassidy, Grace, Kaylea, Corbin, Addisyn, Harley, and Manu; one great-granddaughter, Ella; two brothers, Gene Crewse and wife, Janie, and Duane Crewse and wife, Debbie; two sisters, Fern Dugger and Faye Roderick and husband, Leon; and life-long friend, Candace Howerton. Delbert will be greatly missed by a host of many other family members and friends.
