Martin "Pat" Crawford III

Martin "Pat" Crawford III, 73, of Ottawa, passed away Friday, December 18, 2020 at Ottawa Pavilion.

Private services will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery with Military Honors. Ottawa Funeral Home has been entrusted with cremation rights.

Pat was born November 15, 1947, in Ottawa, IL, to Martin "Pat" and Virginia (Esmond ) Crawford Jr.

Pat was a Vietnam war veteran, serving his country in the 1st Cavalry Division of the United States Army from March 27, 1969 until December 22, 1971.  He had a very decorated military career, earning the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Metal, the Army Commendation Medal, a Bronze Star, an Air Medal, and a Vietnam Campaign Medal. He completed training as an Intelligence Analyst from the U.S. Army Intelligence School in Fort Holabird Maryland.  He was a lifelong member of the Ottawa American Legion.

He became an Ironworker in 1980 and worked on many bridge construction projects in Illinois and Minnesota, including the construction of the Veterens Memorial Bridge in his hometown of Ottawa, IL.  He was a lifelong member of Ironworkers Local 393 and retired in 2012 to spend time with his family.  

Pat was well read, loved to talk sports, was quick with his sense of humor, and was an all-around great guy. 

He is survived by his daughters, Cara (Glenn) Manning of Ottawa and Callie Anne Kitral of Chicago.  He was lovingly referred to as "GrandPat" by his three surviving grandchildren, Pearl, Bode, and Gus Manning.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Carol Crawford.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Martin's name may be made to The Disabled American Veterens at DAV.org .

The online guest book may be viewed and remembrances shared at www.ottawafuneralhome.com 

Ottawa Funeral Home & Crematory
1111 LaSalle St, Ottawa Illinois 61350
815-433-0300
www.ottawafuneralhome.com

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