Artist, film-maker, raconteur, Curtis James Crawford, has died on April 27, 2024.
Born to Glenn and Gail Crawford in Belleville, Ontario on July 31, 1957. Curtis demonstrated an early aptitude for art, particularly cartooning, which eventually led to a successful career in animation and film-making.
Curtis studied classical animation at Sheridan College in Oakville where he also played for the Bruins varsity men’s basketball team. He was known to take a hard foul. Or two.
Curtis and Anne were married in Lakefield in 1989 and together raised three outstanding children — Joseph, Anthony and Elise — of whom Curtis was immensely proud. He was a loving, supportive, protective and generous father. His family came first.
Curtis went on to supervise major animation projects in Tokyo, Seoul and New York City. His foray into film-making proved equally rewarding, successful and impactful.
Curtis was an avid rugby player, starting in 1977 with his hometown club — the Belleville Bulldogs — and leading to a long association with the Ottawa Bytown Blues for whom he was, at various times, player, choir master, president, committee member, sponsor. Through rugby, Curtis developed and nurtured lifelong friendships. If Curtis Crawford was your friend, you had a friend you could count on. For life.
Curtis was a voracious reader and loved to travel. He was practically unbeatable in contests of trivia. His staunch backing of the Pittsburgh Steelers started in high school and remained unwavering throughout his life. Curtis was also a lifelong fan of the Chicago Blackhawks. And, he wished the Montreal Expos had never left Canada.
Curtis revelled in the company of family and friends. He enjoyed a good steak, a fine cigar, a glass of wine, a favourite old rugby song and a good laugh. Always a few great stories.
His was, truly, a life well-lived. And Curtis will be truly missed by those who loved him. As his favourite musician, Neil Young, would say “Peace and Love”.
Safe journey, “Big Gorn.” Skén:nen –“peace and serenity” in Kanien'kéha (Mohawk)
Celebration of life to be held on Sunday, June 16th 1 – 4 pm at 1035 Bank Street Ottawa- Second Floor.
Digital Guestbook
Anja and Gavin Liddy
Carol buckley
Truly a life well lived! An inspiration and an honour to have as a friend.
Jamie Brougham
Good bye old friend!
Ed Kafka
Curtis was a few years behind me in high school but I vividly remember his artistic talent and wonderful sense of humour. To say the least, his personality was memorable. I extend my deepest sympathy to his Family and his many friends. May he rest in peace.
Sue &jeff wenzowski
Curtis will be truly missed. He was the light of the party when he was in the room may his memory live on through his wife and children and family.
Grace MacLeod
Anne, Elise, Joe, and Anthony— I am so sorry for the loss of your husband and father. I remember his sense of humour and fun as well as his kindness and generosity. Thinking of you all.
Wendy (Halsey) Adjoury
You will be truly missed, my heart is heavy R.I.P. dear cousin xx
My sincere condolences to all the family members xx
Cathie Daley (O'Brien)
This is where I get confused as to the cousin terminology. I'm Winifred's granddaughter - Jack O'Brien's daughter. I think that I must have been of college age when I met Curtis. I took Graphic Design and was impressed with Curtis's artistic talents I see that Curtis was one year younger than me, and it looks like our children would be around the same age. I'm so sorry to hear this news and so wish we could have reconnected. Much love to Anne, Elise, Joe and Anthony. Cathie
Heather Stephens
Anne, Joe, Anthony, and Elise, I am deeply sorry for your loss. I will always remember and be grateful for Curtis’ kindness, humour, infectious laughter and welcoming spirit. My love and thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.
Noella and Hector Hinchcliffe
What a beautiful tribute. RIP Curtis!
What a great tribute; you captured him beautifully! Our deepest condolences, rest in peace Curtis.