Arvil Crase

Arvil Crase, a cherished husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away on October 11, 2024, in Elbe, WA. Born on May 28, 1938, in Whitesburg, KY, Arvil graced this world with his presence for 86 fruitful years.

Arvil's life was a testament to hard work and enduring love. In 1956, he graduated from Charlestown High School in Indiana and continued his education at Berea College in Kentucky, where he earned his degree in 1960. It was also in Berea where he married his lifelong partner, Violet Kisamore, on June 5, 1960, beginning a remarkable journey together.

Professionally, Arvil retired from a fulfilling career at U.S. Ecology, where his diligence and honesty left a lasting impact. Outside of work, Arvil's life was filled with passions that brought him immense joy and relaxation. Known for his dry sense of humor and the enviable skill to filet a fish of any size, Arvil was happiest when surrounded by nature, whether fishing, woodworking, or camping with family. Arvil had a strong passion for baking delicious bread, photography, and growing flowers.

Arvil’s vibrant personality extended into his community engagements as well. He served as a volunteer usher at the Washington Center for the Arts, ensuring countless patrons enjoyed the arts as much as he did. Additionally, Arvil found purpose working in the ballot shop during election time, reflecting his ambition and dedication to civic duty.

Arvil's love for his family was unparalleled. He leaves behind his beloved wife Violet; his children Brian (Channa) Crase, Jenni (Dan) Buchanan, and Amy (Steve) Rosen; and his son-in-law Chris Patrick. His legacy is further carried forth by his sixteen grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and one eagerly awaited arrival, along with his siblings Willard Crase, Charles (Alice) Crase, Willa St. John, Louama (Ken) Kelly, and Francine (Ken) Baker. Arvil was preceded in death by his cherished daughter, Sarah Patrick, his parents, three sisters, and two brothers. Arvil was a father to 11 exchange students from a variety of countries.

A service to honor Arvil’s rich legacy will be held on November 1, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Olympia, located at 1224 Legion Way SE, Olympia, Washington. The ceremony will also be available via live stream for those unable to attend in person through the following link: https://youtube.com/live/Y4y16JqIkTs?feature=share

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Rebuilding Together Thurston County or the First United Methodist Church of Olympia for the maintenance of their organ, at the address provided above.

Arvil Crase’s life was a beacon of humor, faith, and family. He touched many lives and will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held locally in Charlestown on December 15, 2024, at 2:00 pm

Visitation with the family will be from 1:00 - 3:00 pm at Grayson Funeral Home.