Terry Arthur Crafts

Terry Arthur Crafts, age 58, of San Bernardino, CA, unexpectedly passed away in his home on December 22, 2021. Terry was born on February 4th, 1963 in Indio, CA, to Charles and Barbara Crafts. He grew up in Banning, CA and graduated from BHS in 1980. After graduating he entered the US Air Force serving at Keesler Air Force Base (AFB) in Biloxi, MS, Norton AFB in San Bernardino, CA, Clark AFB in the Philippines, Zweibrucken AFB in Germany, and Dover AFB in Delaware. After ten years of active duty he returned to Banning. He retired in 2011 as a Master Sergeant in the Air Force Reserves at March Air Force Base. Terry discovered his love of photography working in a San Bernardino photo lab, and shared that love teaching photography at San Bernardino Valley College before starting his own photography business. He moved to San Bernardino and became a US Postal carrier at the Del Rosa Post Office working his way up to supervisor before retiring in 2020.

Terry loved being close to his family and enjoyed his deep roots in Southern California. Terry could often be found with family enjoying a good meal and plenty of laughter. He was an active lifelong member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Banning. He enjoyed the lessons of Jesus' love and grace, the community of the church, Bible study, singing in the choir, and the fellowship shared with friends, family, and neighbors. He was an avid music lover, confirmed by an extensive CD and vinyl collection. Terry played baritone horn in the Banning High School Marching Band, and alongside his dad in the San Gorgonio Pass area's Bavarian Band (aka the Pass Gassers). He had a deep love of the SoCal mountains and their historic towns, often escaping with his camera to capture a disappearing landscape. He would often use these backgrounds in his photography business for portraits and weddings. Like his dad and brother, Terry was a foodie at heart and enjoyed trying local venues. One of his favorite places was State Street Winery in Redlands. He enjoyed learning about the production and blending of wine, helping out with the bottling, and labeling the local wines. He made great friends there who shared their enjoyment of wine, jokes, and local musicians. Retirement freed Terry to enjoy getting on the road to visit family and friends in other states. Terry will be remembered as a loved and trusted son, brother, uncle, and friend. He was kind hearted, yet a strong willed person with determination for doing what was right and fair. He had a quiet observant demeanor and would share his wisdom only when asked. He had a humorous view and wit that would make us all laugh.

Terry was preceded in death by his dad. He is survived by his mom, his sister and brother in law, his brother and sister in law, his nephews and nieces, and grand nieces and nephews. He is deeply missed by all who knew him.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Banning, California on January 30th at 2pm. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, please do something nice for someone who doesn't expect it. Donations may also be made to your favorite veteran organization (i.e. the USO, VFW, DAV, AmVets), Central City Lutheran Mission in San Bernardino, and Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Banning, CA.

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