Thomas "Pete" Crainshaw

Thomas Ray “Pete” Crainshaw, Jr., 66 of Kannapolis passed away Thursday, January 25, 2024 at Atrium Cabarrus. Pete was born March 15, 1957 in Iredell County, a son of Charlotte Josey Crainshaw of Kannapolis and the late Thomas Ray Crainshaw, Sr. He was preceded in death by his wife, Karen and his daughter, Ashley.

Pete retired from UNCC where he worked as a refrigeration mechanic for almost 20 years. Prior to that he worked at Cannon Mills. Pete also did side work as an appliance repair man in the area for many years. Pete had an infectious smile and loved to entertain family and friends by his pool. In earlier days he was known as “Disco Pete”. He was a graduate of A.L. Brown High School. Pete adored his family, especially his grandchildren. He always had a good joke to tell. Pete loved the Lord and was very faithful in his beliefs. In earlier days, Pete loved riding motorcycles and going to the beach. Pete also had a green thumb. He also loved going to Nascar races and was known as the “Slushy Man”.

His family will celebrate his life with a gathering of family and friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at Whitley’s Funeral Home.

In addition to his mother, Pete is survived by his daughter, Kimberly Blalock (Charles), grandchildren, Noah Blalock and Wesley Blalock (Maddy), sister, Tonia McCall (Bobby Eagle), brothers, Mark Crainshaw (Delane), Tim Crainshaw (Shirley), niece, Sandy, nephews, James and David and his two beloved dogs, Luckee and Zayda.

Memorials may be made to the NC Special Olympics and/or the American Cancer Society.