Howard B. Crussel, Jr.Howard B. Crussel, Jr., 81, of Lafayette, passed away on September 4, 2014 at 1:30 p.m. at home. He was born on July 20, 1933 in Decatur County to the late Dorothy (Oliphant) and Howard B. Crussel, Sr. Howard graduated in 1950 from Columbus High School and farmed with his father prior to being drafted into the Army. He was honorably discharged and then entered Purdue University earning a Bachelor's Degree in Agriculture. He worked with Cooperative Extension Service as the Assistant County Agent in Tipton County where he started the Tipton Co. Rural Youth Club. He next served Rush Co. as an Asst. Extension Agent until returning to Purdue for his Master's Degree in Extension Education. He then transferred to the State 4-H Club Dept. as Rural Youth Consultant for Cooperative Extension Service. At that time, he helped initiate out-of-country trips for Indiana Rural Youth members. Beginning in 1969, Indiana Rural Youth had the opportunity to enlarge their world with travel to Austria, Spain, England, Mexico, Holland, Switzerland, Hawaii, and the Caribbean. In 1978, he transferred and served the Extension Service Soil and Water Conservation District until retirement. Upon retirement, he enjoyed service positions within Stockwell United Methodist Church, being a volunteer van driver for the Council on Aging, and an Advisor for Rural Youth Alumni Assn. He also enjoyed many trips around the U.S.A. with his family. Howard is survived by his wife of 54 years Joanne Sweat Crussel and two sons: Brian (Deb) of Lafayette and their children, Ashley (Chris) Archie, Brandon, and Seth; Roger (Diane) of O'Fallon, MO and their sons, Nicholas and Lance (who preceded him in death); a brother, Marvin (Nancy) Crussel of Columbus, IN; and a sister, Donna Robinson of Newburgh, IN. Visitation will be from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Stockwell United Methodist Church on Saturday, September 13, 2014. Services will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday, September 13, 2014 at the Stockwell United Methodist Church with Pastors Evan Cooper of Stockwell, Mark Miller of Burlington, and grandson Brandon Crussel officiating. Burial will follow in Stingley Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Stockwell United Methodist Church in memory of Howard. You may light a Candle of Hope in remembrance and sign Howard's online guestbook by visiting www.fisherfuneralchapel.com