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
Shelly Koster
Pat Morphy
Tall, talented, quick with a smile-always friendly. High school memories of Curtis. Gone too soon. My thoughts are with his family at this sad time.
Chris McQuaid
Anne and family. I am just reading of Curtis's passing. I am so sorry for your loss. Curtis and I went to Sheridan together he in animation of course with another buddy Rick Morrison. I was taking Athletic Therapy at the time. We had a blast together and was a true guy. He will be missed. Hugs to you and yours. Chris McQuaid. Tangier Nova Scotia. Please if you could reach out when his memorial service will be.
Bill Arthurs
This one hit me hard. Great memories at Centennial and our lost weekend at Carleton. Rest in peace.
Catherine Mensour
Curtis was a wonderfully talented man! I was lucky to work with him on animation and film projects. A great story teller with a laugh we will never forget. His presence make our industry better! My sincere condolences to Anne, his family, and loved ones.
Bill Hourston
I will always remember Curtis as a larger than life person whose presence would light up a room or gathering. Nothing better than sitting around while Curtis told a story or adventure from his past.
Gone but never forgotten. I will raise a glass to his memory.
Albert Camicioli
I was deeply saddened to hear of his passing. He was always a kind and generous person and a pleasure to work with on the many films we did together. I'll miss him as will all.
Anne and family,
Our deepest condolences on your loss.
Thinking of you all,
Shelly and Jisk