David Crutcher's Obituary
The Life of David Crutcher
David Junior Crutcher, affectionately called Big Dave, was known
for his endurance, resilience, hard work, quiet generosity, and
above all, love. Born on May 16, 1945, he grew up on a farm in
Capleville, a rural part of Memphis, TN. In his early twenties, Dave
moved to California, where he not only built a life but also made a
lasting impression on his family and community.
Dave was a jack of many trades. He started working at the age of 13
years old alongside his father working the farm and driving a pickup truck doing neighborhood jobs for money or trade. Dave was no
stranger to hard work. He took life by the horns and sought out to
make a better life for himself and moved to California in1968 after
taking part in the Civil Rights Movement with Dr. King. When
settling in California, Dave established employment working on the
railroad. He later pursued an extensive career dedicated to making
his mark in the world where he would learn a new trade and
become a Cement Mason.
Dave dedicated over 45 years to his trade, he was a natural born
leader overseeing crews of more than 30 men. Dave was a simple
man, a straight shooter if you will. He continued his lifelong
connection to building and shaping the world around him. Many of
the paths’ people walk today were shaped by his hands. He literally
paved the way in creating countless sidewalks, he also laid the
foundation for numerous buildings and structures throughout
Sacramento County and beyond.
Dave was not just skilled in his trade; he was also a mentor and
generous supporter. He guided his children, grandchildren, and
young people into the profession, introducing them to Union
opportunities and helping them pave their own paths forward. He
believed in hard work, but just as deeply, he believed in taking care
of his family. Providing, protecting, and making sure his loved ones
were okay was always at the center of who he was.
At 6 feet 7 inches, Dave was as renowned for his powerful presence
as he was for his generous spirit. He was the sort of man who, quite
literally, would give you the shirt off his back without ever expecting
anything in return. He showed his love not just through words, but
through physical presence. He came to basketball games and
showed up for open houses at school … he was always there at the
drop of a dime without hesitation when called upon.
He taught his children and grandchildren how to take care of
themselves and to be independent. How to care for their cars, and
their homes, do the yard work and even down to the simple things
like changing a car’s tire to fixing a tire on a bicycle. He taught us
how to fish and pitch a tent and how to navigate ourselves back
home if one should ever get lost anywhere in the world. He taught
us how to be capable in life; he taught us how to survive!
He made special moments for us by taking us on family trips or
simply just going out for ice cream and he even made sure “Missy”
our German Shepard was included. These simple acts became
lasting memories of love, care and guidance that would be
incorporated into our lives and for the rest of our lives. Outside of
work, Dave lived a life full of simple joys. In addition to being a
family man, he was a cowboy, having owned several horses and
participated in rodeo shows. Dave found comfort in watching old
Western movies and shows that mirrored his own rugged spirit. He
loved fishing, camping with his family, and spending time outdoors.
Dave had love for “old school” classic cars, mainly hot rods. The
Dukes of Hazard was one of his favorite shows, if it was fast, he
would push it just to see what the ole girl could do! He was also a
collector of tools, always ready to tinker, fix, build, or create
something with his hands.
He had a passion for music as well and owned quite a record
collection. On any given day you could find him outside in the
garage listening to his tunes on the radio or just sitting in his truck
listening and reminiscing about life.
Dave was a deep thinker and was constantly making efforts to make
the best life for his family, he had an entrepreneurial spirit that
would eventually lead him to co-ownership of a business called
California Contractor Services along with his brother Peter, his
longtime best friend.
David is preceded in death by his Father; Brooks Crutcher; His
mother Oscaree Tugger; and all his Siblings; Lacey Crutcher, Janice
Massey, James (Skeeter) Crutcher, Eugene Crutcher, Alta May
(Crutcher) Johnson, Judy Ann Crutcher and Aaron Crutcher.
David is survived by his beloved spouse, Mary Lee Crutcher; His
children, Susan (Crutcher) Jones, Alyasha (Crutcher) Lam, Robert
Elder Jr., Victor Amey, Joey Elder, Tony Elder, Stanley Elder, Gary
Elder, and Lorna (Elder) Kodama. He also leaves behind numerous
grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and
extended family and friends.
David was not a perfect man, as none of us are, but he was a kind
gentle giant with a heart of gold. A man of integrity, dedication and
hard work. A man who stood before his wife and held up both of his
gigantic hands and told her “This is all I got” this was his vow to
take care of her and her children, and he kept that vow till death
did they part. He took care of his family, and he took care of others.
He was a man of his word. He will be deeply missed and always
loved.
This is David Crutcher’s legacy. Thank you for being here with us
today to celebrate his life!
What’s your fondest memory of David?
What’s a lesson you learned from David?
Share a story where David's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with David you’ll never forget.
How did David make you smile?