Claude Crumley
It is with deep sorrow, a great friend for over 50 years has passed away. Claude Crumley was a lifetime member of the III Sheeters. Claude was 95 years old. Married twice, Claude leaves four children. His career started with the Yacopi Troupe from 1934 through 1938 working with Ringling Brothers Circus. They were one of the top teeter board acts and Claude was bottom balancer. After leaving them he introduced a dog act and was a dog trainer in the army during World War II. He said he switched acts because after the cash was split up an eight performer act never got paid well.
After Claude’s Army discharge he was picked up by Red Heart Dog Food and performed across the nation with them for 12 years. He was known as one of the greatest dog trainers. He also introduced the 1st Pink Poodle which was at one of his performances in Las Vegas. Some shows would not book you unless you had two acts. Their 2nd act was a comedy Rolla bola act that included juggling. In his late 70’s he experienced difficulty driving at night so Chickie and I use to pick him and Jeannie up to take them to III Sheeter functions. Claude also manufactured juggling equipment and rolling globes. His biggest dream was to juggle five clubs at one of the IJA festivals. Another old-time juggling vaudeville act from Wichita, Buster Bernard, left a portion of his estate to Claude. Whenever they crossed the nation while performing they would always have time to drop in and visit other acts. Unfortunately the last three years Claude lost his hearing and mind. Claude and Jeannie were real troupers and a great pair. We have many fond memories of these two great individuals. The family is having a private ceremony at graveside. Our sympathy goes out to the family.
By Paul Bachman