In Memoriam — Carl Crabtree

Carl G. Crabtree, an Idaho rancher, devoted family man and public servant, passed away peacefully May 6, 2025 at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Boise, Idaho, with his family at his side, following a battle with brain cancer. The community mourns the passing of this man of grit, heart and conviction—a rare blend of old-school values and forward-thinking vision whose roots ran deep in Grangeville. Born in May of 1952, he was raised near Kooskia, Idaho, with an unshakable work ethic, graduated from Clearwater Valley High School, and earned a B.S. in Plant Science from the University of Idaho in 1974.

For over four decades, before entering state politics, Crabtree served Idaho County with distinction. Starting in 1974, he worked as a University of Idaho extension agent, served 31 years as Idaho County Weed Supervisor, and was deeply involved in 4-H, not just as a former member but as a lifelong volunteer and advocate, managing the county’s program for nearly three decades and believing in the power of youth development. His commitment extended to leadership roles within the agricultural industry, including serving as President of the Idaho Cattle Association (1991-92), Chairman of the Idaho Beef Council (2001-02), and on the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association evaluation committee. His contributions earned him accolades such as the Idaho Cattlemen’s “Cattleman of the Year” (2004), Beef Magazine’s “Trailblazer of the Year” (2007/2008), the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Agriculture for Education/ Advocacy (2009), induction into the Idaho Weed Hall of Fame (2007), a Special Award from the Idaho Department of Agriculture for Dedicated Leadership in Weed Management (2000), an Honorary FFA Degree, the Idaho School Boards Association’s “Friend of Education” distinction in 2022, and the prestigious President’s Medallion from Lewis-Clark State College in 2023. He was also named Idaho Cattlemen’s “Beef Industry Leader of the Year” (2022).

Alongside his wife, Carolyn, Carl operated Spade Limousin Ranch near Grangeville and a small livestock trucking business. This hands-on experience grounded his understanding of the challenges faced by rural Idahoans. A traditional rancher with a knack for surprising everyone, he was even known as one of the few to drive an electric vehicle, proving progress and tradition could ride side by side.

In true cowboy fashion, Carl was known for standing by his principles. In 2016, he was elected to the Idaho State Senate, representing District 7 for three terms until November 2022. He served on the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee (JFAC) and as Vice-Chair of the Senate Education and Transportation Committees. A fierce advocate for Idaho students, he championed agriculture, fiscal responsibility and public education. After the Senate, he served as Director of Intergovernmental Affairs for the Idaho Department of Education.

Carl Crabtree’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication to Idaho. He embodied hard work, honesty and heart. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; their three children, James, Diana and Angela; and his brothers, Ray Crabtree and Laurence Crabtree. He lived with love, purpose and grit, leaving the world better than he found it. Crabtree will be missed on the ranch, in the halls of the Capitol and wherever integrity matters.