Philip Daryl Crater (aka "Fast" Phil), age 74, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2022 with his family at his side after battling Lewy Body Dementia for several years. Phil was born in Grand Rapids, MI on May 17, 1948 to Robert and Dorothy Crater. He was very proud of his service in the US Army Military Police and Honor Guard from 1967 - 1970 where he was stationed first in Germany then at Fort Monroe, VA. Phil married Patricia Smith in 1988 and together they raised their blended family of four boys. He loved his family, was an avid gardener, was passionate about Corvettes - he owned a 1960 and 1995 - and was an artistic soul who also loved antiques, working on house projects and reading. After retiring from 37 years in the meat industry he and Pat retired as snowbirds to their condo in Fort Myers, FL where they made many close and life-long unforgettable friends. Phil loved the warm weather and stayed very active.

He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Patricia Smith Crater; children Matthew (Kristy) Crater, Bryan Crater; step children Edward (Bethany) Czurak and Adam Czurak; grandchildren Josh and Abby Crater, Ethan and Eva Czurak; siblings Elaine (Dave) Loveless, Sally Van Duine, Larry Crater; brothers-in-law Edward and Robert Smith; sisters-in law Nancy Smith and Mary Creager; several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Dorothy (Van Oss) Crater, brother-in-law Jack Van Duine and niece Dawn Thrasher.

Phil was happiest when he was enjoying nature whether it was gardening, hiking, on a boat in the Gulf of Mexico or walking the beach. He requested cremation and did not wish to have any sort of funeral or memorial service but for those who wish to honor his memory he would no doubt be delighted to have donations made to Interim Hospice or the Kent County Veterans Honor Guard. The family would like to offer a special thank you to the staff at Vista Springs Northview Memory Care and to Kaylie and Laurie from Interim Hospice for their loving care and compassion, which was a blessing to us. Phil will be deeply missed by his many friends and family. He will live in our hearts forever. Service Details. Online Memory & Photo Sharing Event Ongoing Online Event About this event In Loving Memory Of Philip Crater May 17, 1948 - August 22, 2022 Look inside to read what others have shared Family and friends are coming together online to create a special keepsake. Every memory left on the online obituary will be automatically included in this book. View Tribute Book