1998 Buick Lesabre Stalling while driving, now will not sta

Hi, I have a problem with my 1998 Buick Lesabre periodically stalling out while driving. Sometimes I was able to put the car in neutral and restart it while still driving.

However, a few days ago I went to start the car and it started up, idled very rough, backfired, and then stalled. Now it will only crank, start up and idle very roughly (sounds like a growling noise) and then stall after a few seconds.

I was told to change the crank shaft sensor, the fuel filter, and/or fuel pump. I was told to start with the sensor first.

Yesterday I went to a local autoparts store to by the crank shaft sensor but the man behind the counter recommended that I remove the ignition module and
bring it back so that they could test it.

He advised me to check the module first before spending the money for the sensor (and special tool that is needed to get the old one out). He said that they sell more ignition modules than they do crank shaft sensors so he would start with it first.

Can you please advise me if this is true? Or should I try the easier things first like changing the fuel filter?

I would like to get it running so that I can get it to the shop to be completely checked out. Thank you guys for any help you can offer.

Thanks again,
Mark

ps. I will be donating to those that can help me get it out of my driveway and to the shop. From where I live the tow would be very expensive so that is why I would like to be able to drive it there.

Thank you,
Mark