Johnny Lee Crowder

Johnny Lee Crowder, 35, left this world too soon on Aug. 10, 2007, after an unexpected injury and difficult recovery process.

Johnny Lee was born March 12, 1972, in Toppenish to Johnny Jr. and Maria I. Crowder. He was raised in Othello and continued to work there after marrying and making his home in Moses Lake in 2003.

A devoted father and husband, he leaves behind his wife Sonya and son Johnny Elias. A loving and caring son, he is survived by his parents Johnny and Mary of Othello and sisters Kristee (Seattle) and Shelly (Othello); and his in-laws Pablo and Maria Garza of Moses Lake. He will be dearly missed as a wonderful man and friend by numerous relatives and countless friends.

He is preceded in death by his maternal grandmother Maria Sauceda, paternal grandfather Johnny Crowder, aunt Alice Crowder, uncle Samuel Crowder, and his brother-in-law Jessie Garza.

Johnny Lee will be remembered best for his million-dollar smile, infectious love of life and adventure, and generous spirit of giving and sharing of himself. He had a magnetic personality that drew all to enjoy and celebrate life, family and friendship. He was happiest when surrounded by good music, good food and especially a big crowd of family and friends-there was always room for more in his heart and his home.

Johnny Lee was an avid sportsman enjoying the outdoors when fishing, hunting and camping. He always sought to share his love of nature with anyone willing to accept or extend an invitation. He deeply regretted not being able to complete a recently planned fishing trip to Westport with his dad and a camping trip with his adoring nephews and nieces to Banks Lake.

As assistant manager, he could always be found surrounded by customers at Othello Ace Hardware where many refused service by other staff just to interact with Johnny Lee and see his ever-present smile. He always expressed genuine interest and concern for the well-being of everyone he had contact with.

This notice cannot fully describe the wonderful man that Johnny Lee is. Our only solace is that his legacy continues through his treasured son Elias.

Recitation of the Rosary will be said at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2007, in Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, 200 N. Dale Rd., Moses Lake, Wash. Viewing will be from 5 p.m. until the Rosary service on Tuesday, and on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2007, at the church. Burial and concluding services will immediately follow in Pioneer Memorial Gardens, Moses Lake.

Arrangements in care of Affordable Funeral Options, Moses Lake.