Harry Crouse

Went to be with his Lord, February 27, 2013. He was born March 2, 1935, in Hopeton, OK to Ivan G. Crouse and the former Margaret E. Beck. After college, Chicago was his home for many years. Dean and his wife moved to New Mexico in 1981. They have lived in Albuquerque, Angel Fire, and Sandia Park. He is survived by his wife, Billie Jo; daughter, Denise Crouse and husband, Jody Vanesky and granddaughter, Nora Vanesky of Neenah WI; Diane Crouse and granddaughter, Kirsten Andersen of Albuquerque; grandson, Paul James Crouse of Neenah WI; sister, Estella Gahala-Lange and husband, Dale; nieces, Lisa and Tambralyn and nephew, Keith and five grandnieces, many surrogate grandchildren/great grandchildren in Hawaii and the mainland. Dean's son, Paul Dean Crouse, preceded him in death. A loyal graduate of Oklahoma University, he responded to its Red and White colors with 'BOOMER SOONER!" He served in the US Air Force during the Korean War and was stationed in San Antonio, TX. An active Methodist, he lovingly served the church and its people. Also active in the GOP, he was unwavering when he came upon "baseless" opposition to his views. Dean supported many philanthropic organizations, including Animal Humane New Mexico, Albuquerque Community Foundation, and St. Jude. Dean and his wife established Acacia Counseling and Human Services. For several years, he was part of the KOB program "Family Talk." In addition, to working in private practice, Dean was also a counselor and girls' assistant softball coach in Albuquerque Public Schools; Eldorado, West Mesa, Rio Grande, and Cibola. Among his pleasures were reading history and biography, singing, playing the guitar, composing music, watching and participating in sports, especially baseball and skiing. He was bright, insightful, and analytical. While he didn't talk a lot, he could stop a conversation with a brief comment or facial expression. Global travel highlighted his retirement. Dean sang with the New Mexichords Barbershop Chorus for many years, sharing his love of music with many others. During his residence in Chicago, Dean played guitar and sang with a trio called SUMMERSUN. The group performed in numerous venues around the Chicago area and northwest Indiana. Dean LOVED DonGato the cat and Sapphire the dog, but assured Billie that he loved her more. A Memorial Celebration for Dean Crouse will be held at the First United Methodist Church at 4th and Lead SW on Saturday, April 13, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow. (Please contact Billie if you will attend.) A portion of Dean's ashes will be entombed at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Animal Humane NM, 615 Virginia St. SE, ABQ NM 87108.