PAUL JAMES CROUCH
DATE OF BIRTH: 12/20/1938
DATE OF DEATH: 12/23/2016

After a well-fought battle with cancer, beloved family man and musician Paul Crouch played his life’s final note December 23, 2016. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones.

Everyone fortunate to have known Paul knew his love of family defined him. But he also provided his family and friends with a backbeat rhythm and reason to dance. Paul loved music, playing bass guitar and singing in local bands for more than 50 years. A rabid fan base was known to travel from Southwest Michigan venue to venue to see him play. Not only did he play many establishments, he never turned down an opportunity to play a benefit to help others.

Paul also enjoyed golfing, hunting and fishing. He retired from Borroughs Manufacturing in 2000 after years working as a machinist.

Paul is survived by Carol Fales Crouch, his wife of 35 years, son Jason (Yvonne) Crouch of Schoolcraft, Mich., son Allen Crouch and daughter Deborah Crouch of Battle Creek, Mich., grandchildren Chloe and Hayden Crouch, Joe Marriott, and Trevor Krumm.

But Paul also made a lasting impact on his extended family as well, including two generations of Parchment, Mich. men. He was a dedicated stepfather to Larry and Mike Bailey. Jason’s best friends, Chad Ackermann, Matt Nevala, Ty Kelley, Dave Koren and Phil Collison, were Paul’s “red-headed stepchildren” and he looked after them as if they were his children. From achievements in school and athletics back in the day to now raising their own families, Paul took great pride in everything those boys accomplished. In turn, Larry, Mike, Chad, Matt, Ty, Dave and Phil dearly loved “Pops” Crouch.

Paul said one of his greatest accomplishments was seeing Jason graduate from Hope College in 1994. He was so proud on graduation day.

Family and friends will celebrate Paul’s greatest hits on Saturday, January 28, at Jason’s home, 6239 Sunshine Avenue in Schoolcraft. The show kicks off at 2 p.m. Please come and share your memories with us.

Cremation was performed by Avink Funeral Home Cremation Society. Please visit http://www.avinkcremation.com/book-of-memories/2805964/Crouch-Paul/service-details.php to sign the guest book and leave messages for the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan (http://www.hospiceswmi.org/donations), 222 N. Kalamazoo Mall, Suite 100, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007-3882.

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