Scioto County Commissioner Mike Crabtree Has Died After Contracting COVID.
The announcement came from his daughter, Jenna Crabtree Heresh, this morning.
Crabtree was born on Duck Run in West Portsmouth and graduated from Northwest High School. He served in the US Army 82nd Airborne Division and worked in construction in Ohio for 30 years. Crabtree was active in many civic organizations including the American Legion, AMVETS, Masons, and the IRA.
He joined the Scioto County Commissioners 15 years ago and served as a member of the County Commissioners Association of Ohio (CCAO) board of directors. The Republican commissioner won a decisive re-election victory against Matt Seifert this November, securing 67% of the vote.
The surviving commissioners posted on their Facebook page, “It is with a broken heart and profound regret that we announce the passing of our dear friend Scioto County Commissioner Mike Crabtree. We ask that you please pray for Dianna his wife and their entire family. We will miss our friend.”
Portsmouth Mayor Kevin E. Johnson said, “Our family is very saddened to hear this news. Our prayers and condolences go out to Dianna and family. We pray for God’s comfort at this very sad time.”
Crabtree COVID Controversy
Commissioner Crabtree was proud of his years in office. When asked about term limits earlier last year, he said his success in the office spoke for itself. “We must be doing something right.” Crabtree said that during his time in office the county has made tremendous strides towards financial stability, The county moved from a state of fiscal emergency to a healthy cash reserve.
He was outspoken in office and never afraid to voice his opinion. Last spring his comments about the state’s COVID-19 lockdown generated both controversy and strong support. However, he later said he felt he could have stated his case better. “Let me be clear, I voiced my opinion on Tuesday. Some of my words were not carefully chosen. The state of Ohio is doing all they can do to help our citizens through this and I had serious concerns about the constitutionality behind the decision to postpone the election. I hope that you understand that my heart, soul, and love is behind the citizens of Scioto County. We are living in an unprecedented time and we will continue to work hard for you. God bless you.”
Scioto County Commissioners announced Crabtree’s COVID diagnosis just after midnight on Sunday morning. ”He is very critical and in need of a miracle from God. Please join us in praying for Mike, and his Doctors and nurses who are fighting to save his life. Speak life!”
Governor Mike DeWine called for prayers for Mike Crabtree during his 3 pm address to the state on Monday. “We’re praying for Mike, his wife, and the whole Crabtree family.”
Crabtree is survived by hi wife Dianna, 4 children, and 10 grandchildren.
