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
Renato Vettore
Linden Ashby
Such a good guy to work with, talk with, laugh with, tip a pint with… the world is a much poorer place without you.
Luc Marier
I'm in shock , I worked with Curtis in my early days in Ottawa . He was an awesome talent and a amazing person. My condolences to his family and friends.He will be missed!!!
Sandie (nee, Gee) George
Condolences to Anne and the family. I first met Curtis when he played for Belleville Bulldogs and Greg Towers played for the team and Greg and I were dating 1978. We went to Wolf's house after a game. Curtis always had time to say hello and a smile.
Robert Waldren
Curtis and I worked together in the animation industry in Ottawa during the 1980s and 1990s. He was as dedicated and disciplined in his work as he was in his sports. He was destined for success in whatever direction he chose. He leaves behind him big footsteps.
Richard Hagemeyer
He always had time for people on set and always had a smile. The world was better because of him.
Rod Zylstra (Lori-Ann, Callum and Lucas)
Curtis was our long time friend and neighbour, and he was always so kind to our whole family. His presence, humour and all his amazing stories will be greatly missed.
Mark Brennan
I thought of him often and my other roommates from Sheridan and the time we spent sharing our condo in Oakville. Me, Pete and Curtis. Was always in awe of thier immense talent and skills. Learned a lot from them but, mostly how we enjoyed work and fun
Collin Matthews
I remember Curtis from our high school days at CSS. He was a joy to be around and was sincere. Had a great visit with him at a reunion some fifteen years where he told me of his life and travels.He hadn't changed a bit. Miss you and may you rest in peace. Collin
Christine Leggat
I first met Curtis when I was about 8, when I went to Brownies with Glenda and Tina. Later, he had the locker next to mine in high school (I felt sooo short!). Then I knew him through rugby beer-ups and later as a filmmaker. Always enjoyed all the laughs. Rest easy, Curtis.
As described, a gentle giant of a man & talent. I use to run into him frequently in the neighborhood with his family. Always had a huge smile, and always remembered my name, followed by a “how are you doing these days “.
R.I.P. sir Curtis.