GILBERT, Ariz. -- It is with great sadness that we bring you today the news that our friend and business partner, Tom Crawford, met with a tragic accident this past Sunday, said Paul Reuter, president and editorial director of CSP Information Group Inc., Oak Brook, Ill. Thomas K. Crawford, 51, died in a mountain biking accident while vacationing at Deer Valley Resort in Park City, Utah.
Crawford was the founder, chairman and CEO of Leadership Network Corp., Gilbert, Ariz., which organizes executive networking conferences, including the Convenience Retailing [image-nocss] and Outlook Leadership conferences for the convenience store industry.
According to those close to him, Crawford's dream and guiding philosophy was to change people's lives for the better. He founded the Leadership Children's Foundation, a philanthropic fund that strives to preserve childhood and improve the quality of life for children across America. He was also a board member for many causes, including The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network, Childhelp USA and Valley Christian High School. He also moonlighted as an actor, writer, professional speaker and comedian.
One message we want to ensure is that our company is going to double its efforts to keep Tom's dreams of these events alivewe will work tirelessly to honor him and his legacy," said Leadership Network spokesperson Jon Lewis. "Outlook will be stronger than ever, and the changes Tom has already initiated for CRC will help it get even better. He made his vision to us very clear, and we are all committed to seeing it through.
Tom Crawford was a wonderful family role model, an involved community leader and one of the most creative business minds I have met, said Reuter. Please join all of us at CSP in keeping Tom, his family and all his business associates at LNC in your prayers during their hour of need. If you would like more information, contact me at preuter@cspnet.com or visit www.leadershipsite.com.
According to reports, Crawford was biking down a hill with a friend on an expert section of a bike path called the Thieves Forest Trail when he hit a steep spot, lost control and flipped over the front of his bike. Crawford, who was wearing a helmet, died on the scene, despite rescuers' attempts at CPR.
Crawford is survived by his wife, Tammy, his children Spencer and Jessica, his sister, Gloria, and his stepmother, Gurnith.
Visitation will be on Friday, July 7, at Falconer Funeral Home, 251 W. Juniper, Gilbert. A memorial celebration will take place on Saturday, July 8, at East Valley Bible Church, 1820 W. Elliot Rd., Gilbert, with a reception following at Villa Sienna, 890 W. Elliot Rd., Gilbert. In lieu of flowers, donations are being accepted in honor of Tom to create a college fund for his children (Wells Fargo Bank, TKC Memorial Account No. 2143927974).
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