Richard J Crabtree

MADISON - Richard Jon Crabtree, age 83, of Madison, WI, passed away on June 15, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Richard was born in Madison and graduated from the former Central High School in 1961. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Cold War era, including service in Germany; receiving several letters of recommendation for his excellent service, which mentioned his initiative, dedication, and intelligence.

Richard met the love of his life at Arthur Murray’s dance studio and took her on their first date on February 1, 1968. On February 1, 1969, Richard married Lynn Banaszak. Together they shared more than 57 years of marriage, raised six children: Christine, Catherine, Renee, Alexander, Benjamin, and Adam, and they were blessed with eight grandchildren. Richard converted to Catholicism before their marriage and faithfully attended Mass with Lynn throughout their years together at Our Lady of Queen of Peace Church. He also supported her involvement with Pro Labore Dei, assisting with a variety of missions, including the preparation of meals for the homeless in Madison. Richard enjoyed time spent with family, especially during their annual summer Lake House trips, tailgating at Brewer games, and many other special family moments. Family was the most meaningful part of Richard's life, and his greatest pride.

After he graduated, he began working as a photographer for a short while; then changed careers to work at Westside Cabinet, which he so enjoyed because he loved building and working with his hands. Returning from the Army, he started working as a routeman for Sletten Vending and spent much of his career there. In 2006 he had an opportunity to work at Carnes which allowed him to return to working with his hands, creating products for their company. He was known as a dependable and hardworking employee who took pride in doing his job well. He retired in June 2015 after many years of dedicated service. His motto was "If a job is worth doing, it's worth doing right” which set the example for his children to carry into their adult lives.

After retirement, Richard devoted himself to caring for their home and supporting the life they had built together. He revealed his love and care in quiet ways to Lynn through daily acts of thoughtfulness. One example was his habit of bringing her a cup of coffee every morning with exactly two ice cubes.

In 1997, his son, Adam, brought home a pug puppy named Charlie. Richard quickly developed a special bond with Charlie, who left “huge paw prints in his heart.” Family members still smile when recalling memories of him playing with Charlie on the floor of the family room, or the two of them watching sports with Charlie tucked close to Richard on the love seat. Moments like these revealed Richard’s soft and playful side.

Though Richard was quiet in nature, those that knew him got to enjoy his dry sense of humor. He was known for his smart quips and his ability to make those around him laugh. Richard enjoyed league bowling, golfing with Lynn, trying his luck with lottery scratch-offs, and keeping up with the Brewers, Badgers, Packers, Bucks, tennis, and PGA Tournaments. He appreciated routine, enjoyed the comfort of familiar activities, and was happiest spending time with family.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Lynn Crabtree; his children, Christine (Scott) Salfer, Catherine (Doug) Curran, Renee (Steve) Kotajarvi, Alex (Rachelle) Crabtree, Ben (Amanda) Crabtree, and Adam (Rhianon) Crabtree; and his grandchildren, Lauren, Jacob, Andre, Cora, Christian, Piper, Connor, and Avery.

He was preceded in death by his dad, Donald Crabtree; mother, Anna Allen; brother, Jim Crabtree; sister, Berdene Luther; parents-in-law, Stephen and Dolores Banaszak; brothers-in-law, Steve Banaszak and Dick Priebe; sisters-in-law, Pat Banaszak and Anita Shively; nephews, Patrick Snell and Zachary Shively; and niece, Teresa Banaszak.

Services will be held at OUR LADY QUEEN OF PEACE PARISH, 401 S. Owen Drive, Madison, on Thursday, June 25, 2026. A visitation will take place from 9:30 a.m. until 11 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. with Father Jay Poster presiding.  Burial will follow at RESURRECTION CEMETERY, 2705 Regent St., Madison. A luncheon will immediately follow back at church. A Rosary honoring Richard will be announced and recited in the Chapel after lunch.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson West

Funeral & Cremation Care

7435 University Ave.

(608) 831-6761