News Summary
Quincy Monroe Crater II, affectionately known as Chip, passed away at the age of 90. A devoted family man and IBM pioneer, Chip’s contributions to technology and love for sports defined his life. Survived by his daughters and grandchildren, he leaves a lasting legacy of integrity and kindness, with a memorial service set for March 14, 2025.
Potomac, MD – Quincy Monroe Crater II, fondly known as Chip, passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on January 6, 2025. Chip, a beloved family man and a pioneer at IBM, left behind a legacy that will be cherished by his loved ones and all who knew him. At the time of his death, he resided in Potomac, Maryland.
Born in Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania, Chip was raised by Quincy Monroe Crater and Rubye Shumaker Crater, where he developed a passion for sports and demonstrated athletic excellence from an early age. An avid hunter and fisherman, he enjoyed various outdoor pursuits throughout his life.
Chip attended Muskingum College in New Concord, Ohio, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics. It was here that he met his wife, Julia “Julie” Francis Crater. The couple married on June 7, 1958, and enjoyed a loving partnership that lasted 65 years until Julie’s passing.
After graduating in 1956, Chip served in the Navy and was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, before joining IBM in 1960. His contributions to IBM were significant; notable among them was his early role in Project Mercury programming operations. In 1962, he became one of the first IBM employees assigned to the NASA Manned Spacecraft Center in Houston, Texas. Chip quickly rose through the ranks and, by the age of 30, was managing the Gemini IV programming task force, earning him the nickname “Old Man (at 30) of a Young Industry.”
In 1966, Chip and Julie relocated to Potomac with their two daughters, where they built a home filled with warmth and good values. After leaving IBM, he joined Blue Cross Blue Shield of the National Capital Area, eventually becoming a senior executive until his retirement in 1985.
Chip was known for his dedication to the Pittsburgh and Washington sports teams, instilling a love for sports in his family. Family outings included attending games at iconic stadiums and traveling to Super Bowls. An enthusiastic golfer, Chip played on notable courses across the United States, enjoying a particular fondness for Harbour Town Golf Links in Hilton Head, South Carolina, and shared this passion with his daughter, Cathryn.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Chip was a man of strong character, valued hard work, integrity, and kindness. His household was characterized by discipline and love, shaping the lives of his children and grandchildren. He was always willing to help those in need, earning the respect and admiration of many in his community.
Chip is survived by his daughters, Susan York and Cathryn White, as well as seven grandchildren: Ty, Quincy, Eloise, and Brooke York, and Haley, Jack, and Meredith White. He was preceded in death by his wife, Julie, and his brother, Tom Crater.
The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. A memorial service is scheduled to celebrate Chip’s life on March 14, 2025, at 11 a.m., taking place at Potomac Presbyterian Church located on River Rd. in Potomac, MD.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Quincy Monroe Crater II Obituary
- Wikipedia: IBM
- Dignity Memorial: Quincy Monroe Crater II Life Tribute
- Google Search: NASA Manned Spacecraft Center
- Dignity Memorial: Chip’s Memorial Service Details
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sports
- Dignity Memorial: Family Information
- Google News: Quincy Monroe Crater
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