News: CCU Mourns Larry Crabb's Passing

Dr. Crabb served as a leader, educator, and spiritual adviser to many at CCU

The Colorado Christian University community was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Larry J. Crabb, a longtime CCU professor and former chair of the graduate-level counseling degree program. Since 2003, Dr. Crabb served as Distinguished Scholar in Residence and University Representative. In addition to the many master's classes and seminars that he led at CCU, for many years he was a regular chapel speaker in the College of Undergraduate Studies and was known to host a "Senior Dessert Night" each spring, challenging and encouraging seniors just before they graduated from CCU. His work at CCU will have a long-lasting impact on the direction of the University, as well as in the lives of our students.

As the founder of the counseling program at CCU, Dr. Crabb set the University on the national stage and elevated its graduate programs. He was also instrumental in shaping the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, where he was an affiliate faculty member for a decade. The master's degree in counseling is now the largest graduate-level degree program at Colorado Christian University.

"We were heartbroken to learn of the passing of Dr. Larry Crabb, one of our biggest advocates and friends," said Dr. Donald W. Sweeting, CCU president. "He was a leader, an educator, and a spiritual adviser to many in the CCU community for a number of years. He had a passion for Christ-centered, biblically grounded psychology, and for seeing sound Christian counseling transform people's lives. He will be greatly missed by all of us at Colorado Christian University."

In November 2018, CCU dedicated the Larry J. Crabb Center for University Counseling. The center is staffed by full-time, state-licensed mental health professionals and counseling interns that provide counseling services to the more than 1,400 undergraduate students at CCU's Lakewood campus. The Center was named in Dr. Crabb's honor as a testament to his extensive contributions to the University.

During his over 30-year affiliation with CCU, Dr. Crabb was a best-selling author; served as the spiritual director of the American Association of Christian Counselors; founded NewWay Ministries; and was a trusted colleague to six CCU presidents.

While we find peace in knowing Dr. Crabb is now home with the Lord, we continue to grieve alongside his wife, Rachael, and their children, and grandchildren. We ask everyone to join us in praying for the entire Crabb family and that God's comfort and peace will be with them during this difficult time.

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. – Psalm 116:15 (ESV)


Watch the video of the memorial service for Dr. Larry Crabb held on April 16, 2021 at Colorado Christian University.