In Memory of

Michael

James

Crumbliss

Obituary for Michael James Crumbliss

Michael James Crumbliss opened his eyes to a new home on Tuesday where he was to be greeted by his mother Peggy Cross Crumbliss, father James Junior Crumbliss, brother Patrick Wayne Crumbliss, and other loved ones inside the gates of Heaven.

Born on June 9, 1947, he passed into the next phase of his life at the age of 72. He married Carole Sue Morgan Crumbliss on June 27, 1970 and continued to live and love with her for nearly 50 years.

Mike, the father to children Jennifer Thomas (Wayne Neal) of Duenweg and Adam Crumbliss (Angie Giddings) of Columbia, had resided in Joplin for most of his life.

He treasured most his opportunities to laugh with and love his grandchildren, Joe Thomas, Jared Neal, Katelyn Neal, Emily Crumbliss, Caroline Crumbliss, and great-granddaughter Kaiya Rae Thomas. In his passing he leaves behind numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and other loved ones.

Mike lived an enriched life marked by service to his community, laughter, and a hunger to share experiences with others. Crumbliss was involved with various service and charitable organizations including receiving his Eagle Scout Award from Boy Scouts of America. He was a 1965 graduate of Joplin High School. Throughout his life he had been active in the American Heart Association, Joplin Jaycees, Ozark Little League, the Joplin Traffic Commission, and others. In later years, he served as Chairman for both the Joplin Metro Credit Union and the Missouri Motor Carriers Association.

Mike was a fan of the Beatles and all things Disney. He attended college at Pittsburg State and received his B.S. degree from Missouri Southern State College. He worked for various companies throughout his life, spending his largest tenures at Tri-State Motor Transit and Leggett & Platt in their transportation division.

In accordance with Mike’s wishes, his remains are to be cremated and buried at Stone Cemetery in Jasper County in a private family service. In lieu of flowers, Mike requested that donations be directed to the Joplin Schools Foundation or to charities of the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary and Crematory in Joplin, Missouri.