William Michael Crow

August 17th, 1952 - August 17th, 2012

William Michael 's Memory Wall

We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of William Michael here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.

Our Uncle Mike was a highly intelligent man. He was unique and loved the " real" people in his life. Uncle Mike had stories that never ended. He loved the BROTHERHOOD and everything it stands for. Chris Craft was his brother and he made many of Uncle Mike's life stories so memorable, even some that we should not repeat. :)
He was extremely smart and always had a different way to see things. He would love to speak his opinion but he would also have a great story and life lesson attached.
Mom and Dad (Cathy and Joe), Uncle Mike loved you both so much and was proud to call you his sister and brother. Mom, you two had a special bond that only you two understood.
Our kids (Karlie and Ray) called him Uncle Big Bird and they loved him unconditionally. Visiting would always bring memories and lots of laughter.
Karate was a big part of his life. He always spoke highly with much respect for Sensei Thompson and his friends who studied with him.
To everyone else that knew our Uncle, he would not want us to cry and mourn. He would want us to celebrate his life and remember the stories. Raise a can cause SH!T HAPPENS!!!
Chris and I loved my Uncle Mike very much and we will never forget who he was.

Chris and Kari Woodall

For my brother Mike- I miss my brother. That may sound strange to some because I saw so very little of him during his 60 yrs. He was in and out of my life as I was growing up and I only remember bits and pieces of our time together. I can remember playing air hockey and ping pong with him and being with him at holiday gatherings. He was always nice to me and treated me like a big brother should treat a little brother. He had quite a life. He did and saw more than I ever will. During his last few months I got the chance to talk to him more than I ever had before. In those few brief encounters I learned a lot about him and what he believed in and what/who he didn't. On our last visit. He reached out and took my hand and looked me in the eyes and said "You're my brother and I love you." I said "I love you too." I don't know if we had ever said those words to each other before. It's said that it took so long to say it, but I rest just a little bit easier knowing we shared that moment. So once again life teaches a painful lesson. Love while you have the chance. It may be gone tomorrow. And then it will be too late, and you will be left wishing it was yesterday, and that you had done or said things differently. I'm glad Mike is at peace now, but I do miss my brother.

Glenn Crow

clara & mike Crow family
My condolences to the family of mike ,
I remember mike thru my brothers robert shawa , and philip shawa he use to hang out with him when we lived in south haven on park avenue. he is now on his journey to everyone he loved and continue on to the be with the angels up above to look down on all who loved him. may you have continue to find the loving memories mike left with each and every one of you to get you threw this days aheads,for its the memories that no one will ever take awy from you.
rest in peace, mike crow
from victoria shawa loonsfoot & Robert shawa in upper pennisula

victoria shawa loonsfoot

My sympathy and condolences go to Clara and the family. Mike was in many ways bigger than life. He was huge in stature, spirit, mind and humor. Few could tell a story with the wit, facial expressions, body language and delivery that Mike possessed. I enjoyed many afternoons over these past 20 yrs with a pizza, a couple 40 oz Mickeys, a martial arts movie or creature feature and great conversation. Mike had a great mind. His knowledge of martial arts history and philosophy was vast. He introduced me to Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Simply stated it means if all the basic survival needs are met, then the more lofty aspects of life can be considered. Mike had a continual struggle to provide those basic needs. He considered himself a "Thoroughbred" and had little use for whiners. He met each day as best he could with as much good cheer as he could muster. I learned a lot from Mike and appreciate life a good bit more for having known him.
He surely did love martial arts, sparring, motorcycles, a grotesque horror movie, solitude in the country and those cats. Go figure?

George Hoffman

My sympathy goes out to the entire family. I apologize for not knowing of Mike's passing earlier and not being there to show respect for such a great man. I had known Mike through karate and had the ultimate respect for him. He taught me a great deal and had left many bruises on me :). I often thought of Mike over the years and remembered his awesome personality. He has truly left a warm spot in my heart and one of the few men I considered to be real. I will remember him always and respect him forever. Thanks for the knowledge Mike and even the occassional drink to unwind and share stories. Rest well my friend.