EDDIE GENE CRAWFORD, a resident of Boerne, Texas, passed away at the age of 69 on July 26, 2014.

Ed is survived by his beloved family including wife, Diane, son Charles, daughter Amanda Crawford Tighe, son-in-law John Tighe, siblings; Edgar, Dalton, Peggy, Don, Sue and John, brothers-in law, sisters-in-law, many adored nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, other relatives and numerous friends.

Ed was born in Socorro, New Mexico, in 1944, to the late Levi E. Crawford and Myrtle R. Crawford (nee Brooks). Ed grew up in New Mexico, Arizona, South Carolina, Georgia and resided in many places around the world before retiring to Boerne in 2008.

Possessing a brilliant mind, exemplary character, exceptional will power, but still displaying a sense of humor, an aura of mystery and reserved modesty, Ed was blessed with attributes, qualities, & talents rarely combined in one individual. Ed remained true to his God, to his country & to his family.

In faithful service to his country, Ed had three outstanding careers over 45 years. First, Ed accomplished a highly decorated wartime military career with three tours to Vietnam. Ed received a Purple Heart for "wounds received in action," and a Bronze Star for "meritorious achievements in ground operations against hostile forces." Ed also received the Joseph W. Stilwell Award for "outstanding academic achievement" at the Defense Language Institute. Next, Ed's analytical skills, expertise and leadership qualities allowed Ed to accomplish a remarkable peacetime military career, reaching the rank of Chief Warrant Officer. Finally, Ed's unique experience, insight into world affairs and ability to accurately predict future events, allowed Ed to accomplish a civilian career with the Department of Defense, replete with honors and recognition of outstanding contributions to many important national goals, which are so abundant that a list here is not practical.

In the end, his greatest accomplishment was his selfless love as a faithful husband and devoted father. He loved and sacrificed unconditionally. To those who loved him, he was larger than life.

Visitation on Friday, August 1, 2014 from 6 to 8 pm at Vaughan's Funeral Home, Boerne, TX.

Memorial service as a celebration of life on Saturday, August 2, 2014 at 11 am at St. John's Lutheran Historic Chapel, Boerne, TX.

The Reverend, Stanley A. Larson presiding.

Internment at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA. Updates available at www.vaughanfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. John's Lutheran Church.