William Crosby

William “Bill” Crosby, 76, of Longville, Minnesota, left this world to go to his new Home on October 18, 2021. Bill was born on April 5, 1945, in Billings Township, Gladwin County, Michigan, to Claude and Maxine (White) Crosby. In 1957 the family moved to Ponto Lake in Minnesota, and Bill graduated from Backus High School. He enlisted in the Navy in 1963 and spent the next four years proudly serving his country. Bill also helped out on the family farm as much as he was able to. He married Mary (Dauber) in 1968 and together they had two sons, Dean and Dale. Bill operated his own logging company for 30 years, while also farming and occasionally raising beef. He was an amazing mechanic that had the talent of figuring out any problem he faced. Bill enjoyed the lakes in the area, as well as Lake Superior. As time allowed, he and Mary would spend time vacationing in the summers in the Upper Peninsula in Michigan, where he always felt at home. Bill also loved watching sports on TV and watching his beloved hometown teams play. Reading was how Bill spent many evening hours. He especially loved the classic Western novels. Bill loved his family with all his heart! Bill was a man of strong faith and was unwaveringly generous.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Mary; sons, Dean (Dawn) and Dale (Jana); his many grandchildren and great grandchildren; siblings: Edna, Leon, Mike, Doug; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Maxine Crosby, and his sister, Mary.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 30, at the Riverview Church in Pine River, MN, where Bill and Mary were married 53 years ago. A gathering will be from noon to 1:00 p.m. followed by a service with military honors at 1:00. Lunch to follow.