Vernon E. Craw

       Vernon E “Mike Craw”, 85, Altoona, went to be with the Lord Thursday morning at the home of his daughter, Becky,  in Sinking Valley.

      He was born in Altoona, a son of the late Leroy W., Sr. and Margaretta (Stull) Craw. He married Hermanie M. Espigh on August 30, 1952, in Bellwood.  She preceded him in death on March 8, 2008.

      Surviving are two daughters: Becky Hamilton and husband Randy, with whom he resided, Karen Cornell of Everett; one son, Mike of Altoona; ten grandchildren; one great grandson; and a great granddaughter on the way; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by a daughter, Bonnie Belz, in 2014, a grandson, Chad, in 2009, one brother, Leroy “Steve” Craw and three sisters: Jane Lingenfelter, Charlotte Reid, and Connie Moran.

      Mike retired as owner/operator of Craw and Son Sheetmetal and HVAC Company in Juniata.  During his early career he was twice past president of the Altoona Jaycees and later became the local chapter president of Gideon’s International.  He was also a member and lay speaker at Mardorf United Methodist Church, Juniata Gap for many years.

      Mike enjoyed spending time with his family, reading his bible and loved his football, especially  Penn State Football and Cincinnati Bengals football.  He also enjoyed attending the Allegheny Lutheran Adult Daycare.

      Friends will be received from 4 until 7 p.m., Monday, February 1, 2016, at Mauk & Yates Funeral Home, Inc., where a funeral service will begin at 7 p.m. with Pastor Kathy Colebank officiating.  Interment at Grandview Cemetery.