David Walter Crawford

David Walter Crawford, born June 5, 1949, in Oswego, NY, passed away peacefully at the age of 76 on April 9, 2026, in Sacramento after a courageous six-month battle with cancer.

David proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam era. He later dedicated 26 years of service as a postal carrier with the United States Postal Service, retiring in 2010. Prior to that, he was employed by the State of California.

He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Yvonne Crawford; his daughter and son-in-law, Melissa and Joshua Torres; and his cherished granddaughters, Hannah, Leah, and Mathia Torres. He is also survived by his brother, Douglas R. Crawford; sister-in-law, Irene Maeda; and many nieces and nephews.

David was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Jane Crawford-Byers, his sister, Judy Moore; his niece, Marriah Dobbins; and his mother- and father-in-law, Winifred and Carl Edward Holtzclaw.

David’s life was filled with memorable and unique experiences. As a young man, he was invited to try out for the Kansas City Royals. He appeared as an extra in a film by Max Baer Jr. filmed in Sacramento, won a Cliff Clavin look-alike contest, and devoted time to coaching Little League baseball in West Sacramento.

He had a deep love for baseball—whether playing, umpiring, coaching, or watching. David also enjoyed photography, traveling, gold prospecting, and visiting Disneyland. Above all, he adored dogs, especially Golden Retrievers.

David loved his family and friends wholeheartedly, especially his precious granddaughters. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Memorial/Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, May 18, 2026, at 12:00 noon at District 56, 8230 Civic Center Drive, Suite 100, Laguna Room, Elk Grove. A reception will immediately follow the service.

A private burial will take place at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery on a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Homeward Bound Golden Retriever Rescue and Sanctuary or the Sacramento SPCA.