William Schmutz

William McCrae "Crae" Schmutz, 29, began his mortal sojourn in Cedar City, Utah, as the youngest of seven.
His love for the outdoors grew as he spent time with family up the mountain, at the beach, and on the ranch, surrounded by the wonders of nature, sleeping under stars, and singing around a campfire as Mom played her guitar.
Crae attended Cedar High and Southern Utah University's SUCCESS Academy, but most of his learning came through life experiences. He left home with a backpack and guitar, anxious to see the world. He lived and loved freely, and embraced the unknown.
He appreciated good music and conversation, and shared his signature songs and smile with strangers who quickly became friends. Crae had a unique compassion for humankind, and saw the best in everyone.
He fell in love with Becca Castanon, and they welcomed a daughter, Piper Luree Lindley Schmutz, in 2020. Her arrival was the highlight of his life.
He died in El Paso, Texas on February 1, 2022, doing what he loved-riding the rails with his dog, Nikolai.
Crae is preceded in death by his grandparents, Eldon and Luree Schmutz, and McRae Bulloch, and his stepmother Elyce Jones Schmutz.
He is survived by his daughter, Piper; parents, Brad Schmutz, (Darla) and Zhailaa Rei; and siblings, Cade (Val), Terrin (Ammon), Kina (Ben), Lehn, Trent, and Taylor; and grandmother, Lillian Bulloch.
A private service was held for Crae on February 24, 2022 and he was laid to rest in New Harmony, Utah.

"Why is it that man sits stagnant, as their spark and inspiration dwindles and dims? It's in seeking out the depths of that which we do not know that we grow." ~ Crae