James “Ted” Theodore Crunkleton Jr., Denver, North Carolina
December 15th, 1930 to August 18th, 2014
James “Ted” Theodore Crunkleton Jr. passed away in comfort and in peace August 18, 2014, after a long illness. Ted enjoyed 83 years of life, including 60 years with his loving wife, Margie. Ted and Margie married following his return to Gaston County after proudly serving in the US Air Force during the Korean conflict. Their sixty years together created many accomplishments – most importantly, their four children: Kim Alix (husband Jon); Ted Crunkleton lll (wife Maggie); Christopher Crunkleton; and Gary Crunkleton (wife Megan). Ted and Margie have six wonderful grandchildren: Isabella Alix, Breanna Crunkleton, Leanna Crunkleton, Montgomery Crunkleton, Hudson Crunkleton, and Beaufort Crunkleton. Teddy loved being a grandfather, and his grandkids loved him for it.
Ted’s accomplishments as a gifted high school and college athlete earned him the privilege of a college education at Belmont Abbey College (’59) and Master’s degree at Appalachian State Teachers College following his global travels with the US Air Force. Later, Ted coached Baseball, Basketball, and Soccer at Sacred Heart High School and the Abbey. During his tenure as the Baseball coach at the Abbey, Ted earned the honor of being named Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Coach of the Year in 1967, and had the pleasure of coaching three Baseball College All American players. Ted also served as the Abbey’s Director of Athletics for several years, and was inducted in the Abbey’s Athletic Hall of Fame and Honored by the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2008 for his coaching career.
Ted and Margie raised and cared for their family, provided a nurturing home on the peaceful shores of Lake Norman, and maintained many life-long friendships. Ted certainly was a very accomplished man given his modest beginnings in a small southern town. Ted’s sister, Erma Crunkleton Burgess, preceded him in death. Ted’s brothers Dave Crunkleton of Las Vegas, Nevada and Bobby Crunkleton of Gastonia, North Carolina survive him.
We are all saddened by Ted’s passing, but we believe his love for people, compassion to teach, and toughness in adversity will continue to thrive through his family, friends, and each individual life he touched. Please join his family as they remember their father at Celebration of Ted’s Life on Saturday, August 30, 2014, from 3:00-4:00PM at Good Samaritan Funeral Home 3362 N. Hwy 16, Denver, NC 28037 (704.483.2124).
The Crunkleton family is tremendously grateful for the kindness and gentle care provided by The Levine & Dickson Hospice House. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations in memory of Ted Crunkleton, Jr. be made to: The Levine & Dickson Hospice House, 11900 Vanstory Dr, Huntersville, NC 28078.
Daddy,, it is so hard to see your name here on this page with your picture. I was so honored to be able to be with you those last days: to talk with you, whisper to you, and hold your hand. I will always hold close to my heart how you managed the energy to pucker your lips when Mom kissed you near the end. You were a loving Daddy and I always had fun staying with you when Mom went out of town. The best times I remember are before leaving town Mom made tons of food for us to eat while she was gone and then we always ordered out! “Best food I’ve had in years!” and we’d just keep laughing. I’m going to try to keep that joy and laughter with me going forward. Already missing you so much but happy you are finally home. Your Rosie
One of the true legends of Belmont Abbey! But there is no greater accolade than “Family Man.” I have the feeling that the perpetual light shining upon him is coming from above a great diamond in heaven. Bless you all…the prayers of the Gallagher family are with you.
What a loving tribute of your dad. He sounds like he was a class act! Now I can see Chris one of the reasons you are such a special guy, it comes by honestly!
Sorry to hear of Ted’d passing. He was a friend to my father (Dusty) for many years. Only have good memories of Ted.
So sorry to hear of Ted’s passing.. I didn’t know him until his later years,but enjoyed Every visit he made with his wife Margie to The Hair Station. He often spoke so well of his Family and card playing buddies. I’m Going to miss you Dear Friend….until we all meet again. Praying for you Margie and Family.
Kim and Family – We are so sorry to hear about your dad. What a wonderful tribute to him. I know he must have been a great father because I know how great you are…and that’s a testimonial for sure. We will be praying for you and your entire family. Mandy & family
Ted was my basketball coach at SHA. He was loved and respected by all the players and a true role model. I have many fond memories of our coach. My prayers are with his family.
So sad to hear of the passing of Mr Crunkleton. It was a privilege to share some time together. There is no more earthly pain but eternal joy coming home to our Lord and Savior. Thought Mr Crunkleton is no longer with us the memories are always there to reflect upon and always cherish. As a child I will never forget Mr Crunkleton visiting me and so many others as Santa. What a joy to me and so many others.
Rest in peace Santa