WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. – Samuel F. Crabtree Jr., 89, husband of the late Alberta Margaret Crabtree, died peacefully Nov. 30, 2008, at Rose View Center, Williamsport, Pa. He was born May 11, 1919, in Tyrone, Pa., the son of Samuel F. Crabtree Sr. and Clara E. (Grammer) Crabtree. Sam graduated from State College (Pa.) High School in 1937. While there he excelled in sports, playing soccer, participating in track and becoming a member of the first wrestling team. He also was an artist and was the art editor of his yearbook. In 1941 he graduated from Penn State University. He was a member of Phi Kappa Sigma fraternity and captain of the 1940-1941 ski team. After graduation from Penn State, he served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1945, becoming a captain of the U.S. Coast Artillery. After his release from the service, he joined his father at Crabtree’s Jewelry Store, State College, Pa. As a resident of State College, Pa., he was on the School Authority that built the new high school and he was elected to the school board, serving five years. In 1960 he moved his family to Williamsport, Pa., to own and manage Ralph B. Grammer Jewelry Store. While in the jewelry business he traveled to Brazil 12 times, between 1968 and 1970, purchasing gem stones and mosaic table-tops. He was a registered jeweler of the American Gem Society and served on the board of the Pennsylvania Retail Association. Sam was a member of the Ross Club, Williamsport Rotary, Scottish Rite Masonic Organization and Williamsport Area Chamber of Commerce, serving as president in 1968. For a period of 25 years he served on the board of directors for Williamsport Savings and Loan. In his spare time he enjoyed playing baritone for Williamsport Consistory Band. He also was well known for his woodworking. As an accomplished cabinet-maker he crafted many pieces of fine furniture, including a corner cupboard using plans from the 18th century. The Grit Newspaper published his picture with the antique grandfather clock that he created. Sam is survived by two children, Samuel F. Crabtree III of West Palm Beach, Fla., and Margaret “Meg” Logan and her husband, Ron, of Orono; and one granddaughter, Clara A. Crabtree of West Palm Beach, Fla. He also leaves behind one special niece, Susan Foster of New York City; many devoted nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. In addition to his parents, Sam was predeceased by his wife of 54 years, Alberta Margaret Crabtree; his beloved son, Joel A. Crabtree; two sisters, Delcena Schuyler and Rebecca Foster; and his brother, Allen B. Crabtree. The family is especially grateful to the caregivers at Rose View Manor and Rose View Court that gave selfless care to Sam. A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at Covenant Central Presbyterian Church, 807 West Fourth St., Williamsport, Pa., with the Rev. Paul Doriani officiating. Contributions in Sam’s memory may be made to the Diabetes Center, Susquehanna Health System, 1100 Grampian Blvd., Williamsport, PA 17701 or Covenant Central Presbyterian Church. Arrangements by Sanders Mortuary. Condolences may be expressed at www.sandersmortuary.com.
SAMUEL F. CRABTREE JR.
