John "Rusty" CROWELL May 2, 1924 ~ September, 28, 2007 Hall of Famer as a husband, father, grandfather, uncle, nephew, family member, friend, teacher and coach, John "Rusty" Crowell's personality and keen sense of humor would put a smile on your face and laughter in your heart. Rusty had a rare gift in that he could connect with anyone he met, take the seriousness of life out of your mind and replace it with joy, humor and happiness. He was well known for his talent of telling stories and making those listening howl with laughter. He might say that part of his stories was true and part made up, but either way the effect was the same. The purest gift in life is the sharing of oneself and making others feel happy. This gift came naturally and freely from Rusty. He would much rather help someone feel good than to have someone else make him feel good. He was a true giver and provider of love and joy. Born proudly in Harrisburg, PA, Rusty graduated from Wilkinsburg High School (PA) and quickly joined the Army where he served his country on the B-17 "Flying Fortress" in WWII. After WWII, Rusty attended the University of Pittsburgh where he graduated from its School of Business. He played catcher for the U of Pitt Panthers and also played baseball on an American Legion team. He followed his family to Seattle, WA and found the love of his life, Celeste, who he later married (a successful 53 year marriage). Rusty spent most of his working days self-employed, which gave him the opportunity to spend close to 25 years coaching little league baseball, basketball and football. He also enjoyed teaching Sunday school. Rusty loved teaching and coaching kids, and his zest for sports was the perfect fit for what he loved the most with the exception of his love for family and friends. Making youngsters feel good about themselves was the most cherished activity in Rusty's life. And, he was exceptional in doing this. Because Rusty was originally from the Pittsburgh, PA area, he loved the Pitt Panthers, Pittsburgh Pirates and Pittsburgh Steelers. Once a Pittsburgh fan, always a Pittsburgh fan. His love for Pittsburgh sports teams was inherited and embraced by his family. He was also a UW Husky fan and knew to respect the WSU Cougars. Rusty was known as "Mr. Sports," "Coach," and "Mr. Pittsburgh." In addition to his love of family, friends, sports, and coaching and teaching, Rusty was fond of sharing time at the "beach cabin" and tending his rose gardens. Preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Edna, mother in law, Mimi Vistrand and father in law, Paul Vistrand, sisters, (and brothers in law), Helen (Art) Theberge and Anabel (George) Sanborn, son, Curt, and brother in law, John Detlie. Rusty is survived by his wife, Celeste, children, Carol and David (Claudia), grandson, Travis, sister, Ginny Detlie, nephews, Bill Theberge, Sandy Sanborn and Johnny (Anita) Detlie, nieces, Ginny Ann (John) Johnson and Holly Detlie Barrington and their children and grandchildren. Cause of his death was heart failure. Thank you Rusty for your love and wonderful gifts. You truly blessed those you loved. We will always be so very thankful, we will always be with you, and we will always love you. Now, it's time for you to share your gifts and joy with your family and friends in heaven. At Rusty's request, there will be no service but a family memorial will be held. Remembrances are suggested by donating (include note on check "In remembrance of Coach Rusty Crowell") to the Northeast Seattle Little League, 4616 25th Ave. NE, Mailbox 524, Seattle, WA 98105. Donations are accepted online at http://nesll.cmiregistration.com/Donate.aspx. We are especially grateful to the caring medical staff at Virginia Mason Hospital, Group Health Clinic, and consulting nurse, Sarah Wagner. Published in print on 10/7/2007. Seattle Times