George Crow

George C. Crow, 77 of Elk Rapids and formerly of Shanty Creek, Bellaire, died Fri. Jan. 2, 2015 as the result of an automobile accident. He was born Mar. 7, 1937, in Harrisburg, PA, the son of Clarence and Theresa (Wanek) Crow. He proudly served in the United States Army and upon his discharge he went on to the University of Michigan where he received his Bachelor's Degree. George worked for 35 years for Ford Motor Company as a design engineer. He was instrumental in the development of the air bag. After retirement he worked with TRW as a consultant on safety research of vehicles. George was an active member of the Ford Yacht Club starting in the mid 1960's and was a Past Commodore. He loved to sail and participated in 7 Mackinaw Races. He was a wood crafter, even building his own small sail boat in the period correct manner. He hand carved and built many gifts over the years for his family, friends, and the community. George was also a member of the Automotive Engineer Society and the Bellaire Lions Club. He volunteered for several years at the Antrim County Commission on Aging - Meals on Wheels Program. On Mar. 17, 1978, in California, he married Ursula Falck who survives. Also surviving are his children John R. (Sheila) Crow of Waterford, and Christine C. (Robert) Smith of Aiken, SC, grandchildren Ryan (Renee) Powell, Diane Crow, Erica Smith, Nicole (fiancAC.e Derrick Yager) Smith, great grandchildren Evan and Ariel Powell, brothers Daniel and Thomas Crow, brother and sister inlaw Henry J.(Susie) Falck and many friends in Washington, California, Arizona, and Michigan. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother inlaw Richard Falck in 2010, and his loving four legged companion, Sam, who died alongside him in the auto accident. A memorial service will be held in Michigan, June of 2015. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be given to the Antrim County Animal Shelter, PO BOX 568, Bellaire, MI 49615 or the Paralyzed Veterans of America, 7 Mill Brook Road, Wilton, NH 03086. Arrangements have been handled by the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.