Edwin E. “Eddie” Crabbs, 75, died September 14, 2026. He was born May 7, 1951, in Hutchinson, to John M. and Betty (Elliott) Crabbs.

Eddie graduated from Nickerson High School in 1969. He spent 36 years working for Dillons as a Teamster Local 795 and warehouse associate before retiring in 2006. He took great pride in his years of hard work and the life he built for his family.

On June 11, 1994, Eddie married the love of his life, Italia (May) Oathout, in Hutchinson. He was thoroughly devoted to Italia and never tired of telling the story of how nervous he was and how much he was shaking the day he finally worked up the courage to invite her out for their first cup of coffee. After 32 years of marriage, his love and devotion to her remained at the center of his life.

Eddie loved his three children, John, Carolyn, and Robert, with all his heart and was incredibly proud of each of them and their accomplishments. Through his example, he taught them the value of hard work, a strong work ethic, and taking pride in a job well done. Affectionately known as “Eduardo” by his family, he also passed along his love of gardening and appreciation for the beauty of plants, something each of his children will carry with them always.

Eddie was perhaps most proud of his home and garden. In his earlier years, his garden was featured on tours of Hutchinson gardens, and he loved talking about his beautiful clematis vines and the many varieties of daylilies he grew. In later years, his attention turned to cacti. He delighted in discovering new varieties, nurturing them, and patiently waiting for their beautiful blooms.

A habitual hobbyist, Eddie had a way of going “all in” whenever something captured his interest. He loved to tinker, build, and problem-solve and could most often be found working on something in his garden or garage. That curiosity eventually led him to kite buggying. True to form, Eddie didn’t simply take up the hobby, but he built his own buggies. He could often be seen kite buggying just east of the fairgrounds. He also enjoyed playing Omaha Hi-Lo Poker and, perhaps most of all, sharing whatever passion had most recently captured his attention with the people he loved.

Eddie is survived by his wife of 32 years, Italia Crabbs of Hutchinson; children, John Oathout and partner Delta Esparza of San Diego, CA, Carolyn Ebersole and husband Shaun of Houston, TX, and Robert Oathout of Lima, OH; brother, Wayne Crabbs of  California; sister, Joann Martin and husband Paul of Hutchinson; grandchildren, Italia, Selena, and Rylee; and great-grandchildren, Maddox, Gianna, and Kaegan.

He was preceded in death by his father, John M. Crabbs; mother, Betty Crabbs Eastman; stepfather, Byron Eastman; and brothers, JD Crabbs and Galen Crabbs.

Private family inurnment will take place in Eastside Cemetery, Hutchinson. Friends may sign Eddie’s memorial book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to The National Kidney Foundation, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.