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In Memory Of

John “Joe” William Crooker, Age 76, of Butte

March 25, 1945 – July 23, 2021

Joe Crooker was born on 3/25/1945 to Milton and Kathryn Crooker in Butte, MT. Joe passed away on 7/23/2021 in Butte, MT. Joe was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Skip Chelini and Joann Glutsch. Joe is survived by his daughter, Lori Shafer, son, Jody Crooker, and their families, sisters, Jean Lopez, Nancy Edwards, and Peg Bammel, and brothers, Byron Crooker and Bob Crooker, many nieces and nephews, and very special friends, Joe and Nancy Gillis.

Joe enjoyed stock car races. He will also be sadly missed by his morning cribbage buddies.

Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or share a memory of John.

Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for John and his family.

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  1. Lori Shafer says

    July 27, 2021 at 8:20 am

    Dad, I am glad you are not suffering any longer. Love, Lori

  2. Pete Philips says

    July 27, 2021 at 4:07 pm

    To the family of my good friend Joe, please accept my condolences, Jie and I were friends for many years going back to our high school days. My name is Pete Philips, I am from Butte but was transferred out in 1969 by Skaggs Drug to Salt Lake City. Joe and Byron and I played on a few basketball teams together and we did exceptionally well, we won the Championship for the Navy team we represented. It was hard beating us as we had a solid team, Joe and Byron played the post positions and I was one of the two guards. I do come back to Butte regularly and would call Joe, we would get together and relive the old days. I truly and sorry to hear the good Lord has called my friend home. His Bless him and his family. On the chance anyone would like to contact me my number is 916-719-5477. Byron I hope you are doing well.

  3. Cherie Guidoni says

    July 27, 2021 at 9:07 pm

    So sorry for your loss Jody and lorie prayers to you and your family.

  4. Elisa Gonzales says

    July 27, 2021 at 9:50 pm

    Sincerest condolences to the family. May the next few days and weeks be filled with healthy grieving and fond memories. My heart and prayers are with all.

  5. MERLIN NORBURY says

    July 28, 2021 at 9:18 am

    My brother Jim and I Merlin Norbury send our deepest condolences to Joe’s family. Joe was at Jim’s house daily for years and we would all rehash everything about our vehicles. He was a very good friend from high school on. God give u the strength to get through these most difficult times. God rest his soul.

  6. Daniel Killoy says

    July 28, 2021 at 12:24 pm

    Rest in peace Joe you are a good friend to Bill W and all of his associates you helped many a man find the right path best regards Danny

  7. Mary Breitzman Peterson says

    July 29, 2021 at 6:39 am

    So sorry for your loss Jody and Lori. Prayers for comfort and peace for all the families. Joe was a friend of my first husband-Frank Breitzman-and was an usher for our wedding. Once again so sorry for your loss.

  8. Rick Later says

    July 29, 2021 at 5:37 pm

    With SINCERE SYMPATHY R.I.P.
    Rick & Cooky Later

  9. Peg ( Crooker) Bammel says

    July 29, 2021 at 6:45 pm

    I really miss our nightly telephone talks and laughs. Rest In Peace big brother. LOVE YOU

  10. Heather H says

    July 30, 2021 at 1:20 am

    Joe…or pops as we called you. We loved you and were part of each other’s lives for many years. I pray you are no longer in pain and able to run and dance and do all that you love. Love always Heather, Aryana and Havyn.

  11. George Groesbeck says

    July 30, 2021 at 8:00 am

    Joe was my friend. May the family have Peace and good memories. Sorry

  12. Peg (Crooker) Bammel says

    July 30, 2021 at 7:23 pm

    LOVE the picture. Love and miss you big brother. Rest in peace

  13. Mark Chelini says

    July 30, 2021 at 8:03 pm

    Lori and Jody,
    Very sad to hear about Joe. I agree with Peg…great photo of him laughing which I recall him doing a lot.
    My thoughts and prayers for you.

  14. Karen Hanna Butler says

    August 1, 2021 at 1:16 pm

    Sending love & sympathy to friends from long ago, Jeanne & Nancy.

  15. Jim Faraoni says

    August 1, 2021 at 8:52 pm

    To the family of Joe, I am truly sorry to hear about Joe’s passing. I remember when we were kids and playing basketball together with Byron as well. Joe had a lot of good qualities that will be missed. May he rest in peace. May Joe’s family find peace in his memory.

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