Ralph D. Crenshaw

Ralph David Crenshaw was born February 11, 1935, to the late Vennie and Jordan Crenshaw in MO. Ralph was the 2nd oldest of 13 children, 4 brothers and 8 sisters. He relocated to Benton Harbor, MI at the age of 4 where he remained until his passing on July 21, 2025.

Ralph worked as a machine operator at Bendix Corporation for 46 years until he retired. He served as President of U.A.W. Union for many years.

Ralph was a pillar in the Community of Benton Harbor for many decades where he briefly served as Pro Team Mayor. He was the longest serving commissioner in Benton Harbor History and served as the Chairman of the Housing Commission Board. He was well known for his love and dedication to not only the Community of Benton Harbor but as well as his big family.

He is survived by his siblings, Willie Crenshaw of Saint Louis, Missouri, Robert Vaugh, James Crenshaw, Mildred Leslie (Willie Leslie) and Jeanette (Charles) McFall all of Benton Harbor, MI; Ralph fathered 10 children, Timothy Crenshaw of Kalamazoo, MI, Renita Crenshaw of Berrien Springs, MI, Shirletha Crenshaw of Kalamazoo MI, David Crenshaw of Benton Harbor, MI, Marco Crenshaw Elgin, IL, Brenda Crenshaw of Atlanta, GA, Jacqueline Crenshaw of Elgin, IL., Laveeta Taylor of Benton Harbor, MI, Lonnell Crenshaw of Peoria, IL and Andre Crenshaw of Benton Harbor, MI; 50 plus grandchildren, a host of great-grandchildren including his 2 heart beats Kamaureonna and Kamarion Franklin and a host of host nieces, nephews, friends and the his beloved City of Benton Harbor.

Ralph was preceded in death with his parents; 6 sisters Louise, Alma, Rosemary, Sylvia, Christine, and Shy; 1 brother Walter, His 2 ex wives Zenobia, and Emma.

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