Obituaries

Crescent Township Leaders, Residents Mourn Loss of Longtime Commissioner

Crescent Commissioner James Withee, who oversaw police and emergency services, died of Parkinson's disease on Sunday.

James Withee was the commissioner who oversaw Crescent's police force and a nearly life-long resident who was seeking his fourth term in .

Withee, who had Parkinson’s disease, died Sunday. Funeral services were held Wednesday.

"He was very dedicated to this community," said Crescent Commissioner Jerry Keller. "He had become a great friend during the time we were on the board together."

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Withee, 68, was a commissioner for 12 years and was running unopposed for another term. His name will remain on the May 17 municipal primary ballot, said Crescent Township Manager Patience Eckardt.

If Withee posthumously wins the Democratic nomination for the position, the Crescent Township Democratic committee may select a candidate to run in his place.

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"There's also the possibility for a write-in candidate," Keller said.

With only four commissioners remaining on the board, Keller said there is a good  possibility of a tie vote. A tie would require the township's vacancy board to select a winner.

As a commissioner, Withee oversaw the township's police and emergency services. Keller said Withee's background in law enforcement often was crucial to the township.

"We haven't really had the chance to discuss [whom might take over that responsibility], but it's something that's going to have to be discussed in the next week or two," Keller said.

Withee was dedicated to community service. He raised his twin sons, Robert and Richard, in Crescent and served on the township's small police force for 10 years. In 1973, he volunteered as a dispatcher for the Valley Ambulance Authority. When he retired more than 30 years later, he has become its assistant director.

In addition to his sons, Withee is survived by his wife, Judith, and two grandchildren.

"For a long time, he was very involved in the community," said Hope Withee, his daughter-in-law. "We hope that someone fills his position who really cares about it."

Withee's family has asked that memorial donations be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

"It's one of the better known organizations dedicated to Parkinson's disease," Hope Withee said. "When you think of Parkinson's you almost automatically think of the Michael J. Fox Foundation."


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