Harry Crawford III

Harry Frank Crawford III, age 66, of East Peoria passed away Thursday, August 10, 2017 at home with his family. Born February 15, 1951 in Sullivan, Indiana to Harry “Frank” and Rosalie (Riechman) Crawford Jr; he married Sandra Frederick on February 21, 1976 at St. Monica’s Catholic Church in East Peoria. She survives. Also surviving are his children; Harry Crawford IV of East Peoria and Kylie (Michael) Hankosky of Washington; and his sister, Elaine (Werner) Wagner of Urbana, Illinois. His parents preceded him in death. While studying speech and drama at the University of Illinois and working at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, Harry established a life-long appreciation for the fine arts, which he passed on to his family. He had an extensive career as a manager in the restaurant industry, beginning with a long tenure with Pizza Hut, and most recently having found his ideal job at Biaggi’s. There he was able to indulge in his passions for wine, people, and eclectic neckties. He loved hosting the restaurant’s wine dinners, as well as teaching classes about wine through Bradley University’s OLLI Program and other community programs. Harry was an avid storyteller, voracious reader, and lover of knowledge. He loved to travel and explore. He was a member of Hilton Lodge #1143 AF & AM, and a Past Monarch of Abbas Grotto. Despite only “playing” the radio, he was proud to have raised two fine musicians. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am Tuesday, August 15th at Remmert Funeral Home in East Peoria. The Rev. David Lafary will officiate. Burial will follow at Fondulac Cemetery in East Peoria. Visitation will be 4:00-7:00 pm Monday, August 14th at the funeral home. Masonic rites will be at 7:00 pm following visitation. Memorials are suggested to the Abbas Grotto Crutch Foundation or the Illinois Cancer Center Foundation.