ForeverMissed
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Tributes
March 25, 2021
March 25, 2021
When we cross a certain age threshold, there is a tendency to look backward as least as much as we might look forward. And it is natural to consider the past, when we reach a time when we have "more yesterdays than tomorrows". In this frame of mind I recall a time about 40 years ago when a group of four young 20-something men rented a house on Rawlings Drive in San Jose. The roommates changed from time to time as some married, or moved on for other reasons.

Craig was our roommate for many of those years in the 1980s. I remember his optimism and energy. He was someone, more than most of us, who sought to embrace life to the full. He was also a man of unswerving, even mystical, faith. It was good to be around him, and have him as a friend.

We had many people come through that house. People the church didn't quite know what to do with, who needed a place to stay for awhile. Some colorful characters, some rather needy, some just needing a place before they could move on. So many memories, so many stories, so many people. It was a time and a place we will not see again. And Craig was there for all of it, continuing after I moved out at the end of 1987. 

In the end, we all moved on to other things. But these friendships remained, tempered by new responsibilities, time and distance. I miss Craig. I remember all the times we had together. I'd like to speak to him again, but I will have to wait until we are reunited at the end of this life. Goodspeed, Craig.
September 2, 2020
September 2, 2020
Dearest Craig,

I can hear your voice chiming midstream into a song, blending with a rarer note, loving and enjoying music. I can see you walking and being and greeting with your ethereal shoes; you were always straddling our current world with the one you are now living in, where we will be for an eternity. 

You were always sharing yourself with people, if not in a conversation, ready for one. You did not seem to hold your cards close but rather displayed them. It is hard to fathom that you held so many firm convictions and opinions on such a variety of subjects, pointing to your own time investment in self-education with a voracious dedication to the pursuit of knowledge. Whether one was talking about the Middle Ages, popular culture, geography, the Word, you held educated facts and opinions on so much, and I appreciated that in you.

What about that perpetual party that was always swirling around you. With Lisa at your side, life seemed to hold a dual track ready for conversation, Spiritual discussion and prayer, an impromptu meal - the two of you were such a dynamic duo! Surely the tables have been many, the lives the two of you have touched including mine. 

We uphold your dearest Lisa in prayer and ask that God would especially walk with her and prepare the way for her and lead her into all the fullness that our Heavenly Father longs to give her. 

We remember you always our dearest Craig and we thank you for sharing your beautiful heart and mind with those that have had the opportunity to cross your path. Telling someone about you could only pale to knowing you. There won't be another one so special as you Craig. 
July 5, 2020
July 5, 2020
Craig, my Brother-in-law is utterly unique, valuable and irreplaceable! My husband, Rodger and I gained so much from his beautiful, energy, and spirit! Also how we enjoyed his amazing insights into Jesus, theology, pyramids, the nature of reality and more! We will forever treasure the time we spent with him, and especially the vacation in Ramona we shared with him and Lisa, many years back, during a time when he was battling cancer. We love you Craig! Lisa, we love you so much and are so very sorry for your immeasurable loss!
June 29, 2020
June 29, 2020
Dear Lisa~
I was lead to look up your name on FB. I am Your son’s adopted Mother.

My heart feels your grief. I lost my 92 year old Mother a year ago. It looks like you have lost two the most important well loved men your life. You have received blessing to be loved from your Heavenly Father for you to receive many gifts. God asked, “Love me with all your heart & soul.”

By the mighty of his glory, you will be endowed with the strength needed to stand fast, even to endure joyfully whatever may come Col 1:11

I enjoyed reading your Husbands Graig’s tribute.

Lisa, I still pray for some day soon Jim will meet his parents.

Healing Prayers, one day at a time. Be conscious of your breathing.

God’s Love & Blessings

Calleen Baca
(Hunt)
June 28, 2020
June 28, 2020
This time is so difficult for me. Craig always taught me there was no time....just the Lord's time. I miss you, Craig. Please forgive my selfishness. Your sister, Jill
June 18, 2020
June 18, 2020
It is hard to know where to start here. Craig was loved and admired by so many. As someone who was a roomie of his for a number of years in the 80s, at the famous (or infamous - depending on your perspective) "Rawlings Dr. House" - that rarely had less than four people living in it at any one time - in San Jose, a lot of memories were made. We also got well acquainted with each others quirks, idiosyncrasies, and general craziness. But also--underlying it all was the love and reverence for Jesus Christ, which was the "tie that bound" in all situations. Eventually the roommate situation ended, and all of us moved on the the next adventure that we were called to. I have to say that those times were rich in so many ways. Sure there were disagreements, misunderstandings, personal triumphs and failures - along with a near house fire - that all of us at that house experienced together, but it was Christ who was the center and spiritual foundation beneath it all that made the true difference. Be blessed my brother - you're at your true home now - and I look forward to seeing you again one day! 
June 15, 2020
June 15, 2020
When I remember Craig, I remember a man after God's own heart. I have always adored how much Craig has loved our Lord, how he spent his life sharing this truth with others.
It was at a Bible study where I had first met Craig and it truly was one of the best Bible studies I have ever belonged to! Craig had a way of teaching through an understanding and depth that few are able to achieve, yet was always humble and open enough to hear new thoughts and insights from those around him.
The second thing I loved about Craig was his love for Lisa.... a beautiful, romantic love story that I would of loved to known more of. I am so thankful for Craig, for the lessons he taught me, and for the chance to have known this great man of God.
June 15, 2020
June 15, 2020
I remember when Bills parents needed the front of their house landscaped .  Bill and Craig decided to go for it themselves. And Lisa ...of course you and I decided we’re like ... what the heck . So we pitched in too. So many trips back and forth to gardening store . Cramming in Craig’s truck (I think ) ...we got all the plants .  We dug and got hands in mud for 2 days . Much sweat but always with a smile.  I remember laughing and no matter how grueling the work was....Craig would laughed and smile . Tell stories , etc.  He had the best attitude. Always wanting to help others .  We did a lot of laughing those 2 days .  Those fun memories of the four of us will forever be etched in my heart and bring me joy when I think of Craig . 
Sending you much love Lisa . 
June 15, 2020
June 15, 2020
My friendship with Craig started 20 years ago with ballhitch ramps and him sponsoring my youngest son, Lucas.
What a character! Charming, funny, loving and intense....AND late!
Did a lot of traveling for demos and such for ballhitch....Josh Balough used to spend the night at our house all time since him and Lucas were brothers separated at birth lol.
One morning me and Josh were just hanging out waiting for Craig to pick up for demo while Lucas slept (the boys always had to wait for him to wake up to skate lol). We were laughing about Craig being late all the time. Next thing we know Craig is pounding on the front door and when Josh answered it, Craig was like hurry up, we're late! Me and Josh were on the floor laughing!
We love and miss Craig. What an amazing mentor he was to so so many, including Lucas. Craig just "got" Lucas and loved him so much.
Lisa, I love you too. Your strength throughout this cancer BS was never unnoticed. I look up to you in so many ways. Because of you and Craig's love for each other, you WILL be okay.....
June 15, 2020
June 15, 2020
Craig and Lisa were my next door neighbors for about 7 years I believe. I spent many nights going over to their house and talking about life. Craig sure did open my mind up to the unthinkable and often times we would be having agreements to disagree but still very educational. He helped me coach at Willow Glen HS and he often spoke to the student-athletes about life lessons and how sports was a way for building relationships, working together and trusting each other. Craig and Lisa were not only neighbors, they became great friends to me, my family and my friends. Though I will miss Craig dearly, the memories will always be with me and make me smile!
June 12, 2020
June 12, 2020
God used Craig to lead my husband and I to the Lord. It was his counsel that ultimately saved our marriage and changed the course of our lives forever. We surrendered our marriage to God seven years ago now and are active members of our local church, and fully committed to discipleship. I am so grateful the Lord sent him to us. He will forever be part of our testimony.
June 8, 2020
June 8, 2020
I started knowing Craig when we played together on the Calvary softball team; Craig was our pitcher. After he and my sister Lisa married, Craig became part of our family and I truly admired his inner strength. He could rise above any defeat or disappointment with a smile & confidence while ministering to others in need. Craig is the most resilient man I knew who trusted Christ in a remarkable way especially when his health was failing. In his physical pain, he wouldn’t complain but instead remained abiding in the Lord to be a blessing to others in some act of kindness. What touched me most was all the visits he and Lisa made to spend time with our family in the Granite Bay Area. He gave his time and love from an abundance in his heart to me, mom, dad, sisters, nephews. He cared for everyone, loved Lisa & loved explaining the things of God. His source of strength was truly Christ in him who was always his hope of glory. He cared so much for others, very sacrificial, and was a ministering spirit to me. I’ll never forget the time he prayed for me with loving passion & tears that I would be so touched by God. Life could not beat him down. Craig’s communion with Christ was so personal and precious. And he so freely gave 100% of himself away all for God’s glory.
June 5, 2020
June 5, 2020
I met Craig through my sister Lisa before they were married and I was in high school. My memories of Craig are that of a kind and honest friend who loved and cared about me. When Lisa was on a missions trip in Sweden, I was going through an extremely lonely period where Craig became my best friend. He went with me on my birthday to purchase a Christmas tree and set it in my new apartment I rented. His kindness and compassion touched my life forever. I appreciate Craig's love, honesty and friendship and love for our Lord Jesus. I will miss him deeply, and until I saw our picture together didn't realize the extent of such deep emotion and love for this man who is my brother and friend who will be missed in my heart and soul until I see him again. Lisa, I cannot imagine the depth of sorrow you are feeling for our beloved Craig. I am so sorry for your loss my dear sister. I am always here for you. I love you.
June 4, 2020
June 4, 2020
Met Craig at their wedding to my dear friend Lisa! Had heard for years about her precious Craig. Lisa, I am so blessed to have met him, as well as get to know him more when you visited in Sacto. What an inspirational testimony to read, thank you for sharing this. I am honored, dear friend to see the love and utter devotion you shared together. I know your heart is breaking in losing him. May God continue to bear fruit through his godly legacy, and in your life as well as you continue to share his story. Love you! K
May 31, 2020
May 31, 2020
My best, longest friend, my mentor, my advisor, my rock. Through thick and thin, until the end.
I’ll forever be thankful we met and for all the love, inspiration, encouragement, special times, and life lessons we shared. I could always count on you. Thank you so much Craig.
These tears I cry are because the times we spent together meant the world to me so I will continue to help teach, mentor, and inspire youth like you did with me. Kids are the future.
Thank you as well Lisa. You both are one of the best things that’s ever happened to me and I thank God for that. L&R-J
May 28, 2020
May 28, 2020
Lisa honey, there have been so many beautiful thoughts and blessings blessings his and your many friends have expressed to you. He was greatly loved and blessed and helped many. He loved you so much, honey and I loved him for that. I also love to engage him and many conversations about doctrine and the scriptures and God. It was his and my favorite subject to talk about. His mission in life completed, I'm sure God said   
"Welcome my good and faithful servant"! He was a great son-in-law, dearly loved and will be greatly missed.. see you in the morning, Craig!  
May 27, 2020
May 27, 2020
I first met Craig on a wooden terrace at Chris La Salas ministry on a sunny day somewhere in the USA that I was driven to by the spirit of Christ to just go . I bought a fast ticket left everything all business affairs people meetings and all the affairs of the world before i knew it I was there .

It was kind of a surreal feeling ,i knew nobody and had travelled a long way
Craig and I hit if off immediately , he was passionate in his faith ,something honestly I had not seen before in the flesh , he intrigued me , this passion of faith did not flinch during the entire weekend . I liked him , he made me smile , he was joyous despite great illness , his faith unflinching ,it was this i remember most about Craig , his faith and his smile . We spent time together ,it was my pleasure to ask Craig to accompany me to try to help the ministry with a gift from our Lord Christ .

We tried to do some business with local company ,its fair to say im fairly experienced in business and despite an open cheque book we came up against what can can only be described as an aggressive hillbilly with adont care attitude and masonic symbol over his patented limited dealership.

What i remember is that Craig and I walked out after trying negotiation predictably to no avail ,the salesman was hapless and full of himself , we left politely , as we walked towards the car , I looked at Craig and we both laughed , no need for comment , we knew there was no way i would ever deal with them . We went to my hotel had some coffee called some people and did a deal out of town , who it turned out were Christians with a deep faith who remained in touch with Chris Ls Sala. the product was better and cheaper.

I remember being sad to leave, Craig came to my hotel we ate breakfast , the night before we had a light dinner together,it was fun we spoke for hours I was sad he was so sick ,yet amazed at his fun and energy.

He told me God has plans for you , you will see , I liked him the first time and the last time I saw him . 

John Harrison Jersey Channel Islands
May 27, 2020
May 27, 2020
Remembrances from Jake Klusnick, Craig's nephew on Lisa side.

I'm sorry Lisa, we're all here for you. I know I've told you this before but Craig is an inspiration to me. He cultivated an interest in science in me at a young age that has stuck with me and impacted every aspect of my school and work. He taught me to think for myself and to trust Jesus when the world feels like too much. I have so many memories of you and Craig throughout my childhood, especially Craig's big smile. I will miss him, but I'll never forget him.
May 25, 2020
May 25, 2020
Craig was a remarkable man who would always accept you for where you were. But would encourage you to how you could be. He had a special gift to think outside the box and help you believe in a different future. He had a remarkable sense of adventure and hope. I will always be grateful for his friendship and faith.
May 24, 2020
May 24, 2020
Craig was my savior and others as well when we needed him most. He truly walked a Godly path. When I was going trough a very difficult time in my life he lifted me up, he was my teacher, my spiritual advisor and my counsel, my friend. He showed me love and acceptance and showed me how to find my spiritual walk when I was so lost. People like him are truly priceless. I will never forget how he would read to me uplifting readings and teach me spiritual ways of thinking and acting when I needed that the most. I will never ever forget him. He will always be my brother. Forever! I love you very much Craig!
May 23, 2020
May 23, 2020
This is from Carl Smudski

Craig, you were without a doubt one of the largest figures in my life with everlasting impact. It's hard to express all my gratitude in one go as there are so many unforgettable moments we shared, but I want to thank you for always being there for me and all the opportunities you provided me.

You fulfilled my dream of being a ‘sponsored skateboarder’, Ball Hitch Ramps wouldn’t have been the same without you. You literally put me on the team! I cherish all the time I got to spend with Balogh, Mikey (RIP) and Sour Mike Powell (lol). Our road trips with the ramps were nonstop thought-provoking conversations that I never wanted to end.

You gave me the opportunity to travel at a young age, which inspired me to keep moving and exploring in life. Working an honest, hard day of labor job in Hawaii and getting a taste of a different world outside of SJ was an absolute invaluable experience I think back on often. Sorry for tearing up those golf carts, we just couldn’t help ourselves!

Above all, you challenged me with new ideas and provided me the space to learn and grow as an adult. Every once in a while I'll still hear your voice in my head passionately explaining something or taking a radical stance on a subject no matter how unpopular or unbelievable it may be. You were a true renaissance man of infinite wisdom, curiosity and compassion. I was always entertained and inspired by our talks and they gave me the confidence to think, speak and carry myself with conviction.

Craig, you are always and forever in my thoughts. I’m so grateful to have had you in my life. Thank you for everything.
May 22, 2020
May 22, 2020
I am so blessed to have met Craig in 2009 when I was new to the Bay Area. I didn't have a relationship with God at the time and I was spiritually lost after graduating college. I was invited to a home bible study fellowship by a fellow skateboarder that I met in Sunnyvale who has a deep love for God. I felt so adopted into the fellowship and I never had experienced such tender love. Craig's knowledge about scripture was through the depths of depths that I started having questions about life and its purpose. His knowledge and approach in studying scripture the right way was what I will always take with me.

I am forever thankful for Craig in introducing me to Danny Aguirre in New York City at the time I was struggling to get plugged into a Church community.

Thank you Lord for Craig in teaching me to spend quality time in loving each person individually, to diligently study your word in fellowship, and importantly grow into the image of God. May Craig's Godly spirit and torch be passed onto a new generation of saints. In Christ's name.
May 22, 2020
May 22, 2020
What can I say that has not already been said far more eloquently than I by previous tributes. However I dearly cherished the times we had to together this year my friend and some very sweet fellowship with you and with Lisa. In the almost five decades since we met we have had our ups and downs, shared laughs and shared sorrows. We have agreed on a lot of things and disagreed on others. So thankful for all the memories and until we meet again in His presence, I know you are safe in our Heavenly Father's arms.
May 21, 2020
May 21, 2020
I was blessed to meet Craig, Lisa and Dwan early this century. Craig and I had many engaging spiritual discussions during our time together. It was during a visit in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico, when he introduced me to the pleasures of single-malt scotch and Cuban cigars. As his email username reflected, he was “a lion of a man”. Craig is one of the most courageous and interesting men I have ever met. It is an honor to have considered him my friend. I will never forget our talks together, his fascinating life adventures, and his contributions to my spiritual growth. May loving memories of Craig sustain our love and lead us to peace.

The world has lost one of its best spiritual warriors!
May 21, 2020
May 21, 2020
I was thinking about Craig and when I met him. I was a Scoutmaster and he was in my Boy Scout troop at Bethel Church in San Jose. He was about 12 or 13 years old, curly hair, infectious smile, and mischievous. We needed a Patrol Leader so I picked him because all the boys followed him. I thought if I picked another boy he would fail as a leader because the boys were all drawn to Craig. Plus, Craig would have to behave himself and be the example. Craig was always my favorite. You could not help but love that kid.
May 21, 2020
May 21, 2020
Craig was a true believer and a great brother. I can testify he bore all of the evidence of a great saint. I personally witnessed God do miracles in Craig. I am glad is struggles with sickness are over and he is in the hands of the Most High God in the presence of the Lord Jesus and the heavenly host. The Devil tried to break Craig's faith for years but he was rock solid. God glorified himself through Craig's suffering and the evil one was put to shame as all his efforts to break Craig failed. I thank you God for Craig's life.

I will remember him always and look forward to seeing him again.

Pastor Chris Lasala

Corsicana Texas
May 21, 2020
May 21, 2020
I woke up this morning to a text sent from his phone that my old pal Craig had passed on. I had no idea, as I hadn't spoken to or texted him in several months, but I kept feeling prompted to reach out to him over that time -- a prompting that I will now forever regret. However, I'm really glad that I reached out to him a lot over the last ten years or more after having not seen nor heard from him during the previous 30 years. I met Craig at Bethel Church 50 years ago when he became a part of our youth group, and we eventually became close friends for quite awhile. I could on and on about the various adventures and good times we shared from those days, but it was when I reconnected with him over the last decade that our friendship really meant the most to me. Craig was an early harbinger in the medicinal use of concentrated cannabis oil to treat cancer after having done a considerable amount of research, including successful first-hand experience treating himself in conjunction with the toxic rigors of conventional treatment. I began sharing Craig's experience with the oil amongst my national grassroots following as a musician, and it wasn't long before several friends and fans began contacting me after having been diagnosed with cancer, looking for help. I would then immediately contact Craig, and he always was happy to help out in any way he could. I know of two very dramatic cases where a "cure" (i.e. remission) occurred, and I can't begin to tell you what this meant to all the people that Craig selflessly helped in this way. Even though the oil was ultimately not able to effect a permanent cure for him, the pioneer "seed work" he did in this area meant the world to the people he helped over those years, and I cannot thank him enough for his efforts. Craig has seen things that no one else has seen, and it led him down many roads, good and bad, but I loved him through it all and he never stopped being a source of encouragement and support. For now, so long pal. I shall miss your die-hard enthusiasm for life and hearing your endless stories, crackpot theories and left field opinions, mostly because now and again you were actually right :-) R.I.P. +
May 21, 2020
May 21, 2020
I got to know Craig through Bob Perales during their shenanigans together in coaching girls softball . From the first time we met it was like we had known each other forever as he was extremely friendly and yet wasn’t afraid to tell me something that others would think was off limits for someone you just met ! It was friendship at first sight! 
 Craig was one of the most knowledgeable people I’ve ever met as he seemed to know more about everything (even sometimes in my own profession of Optometry !) which was mind boggling and I loved listening to him and his dreams ! All of them had something to do with making the world a better place and involved God of course ! I loved being with him and talking God stuff because he spoke from the heart and didn’t just talk it he showed in in his actions. He was always doing something to help someone !!  I barely knew him and he and Bob pitched in and helped me and my son Shane by putting up a batting cage in the back of our business parking lot !! I’ll never forget the effort they put in together because it was not an easy spot in the middle of a parking lot with some big tree roots to deal with! Never took a dime only a beer and a burger !
I will always remember the great baseball powwows we had with Bob and he at Jakes over beers and burgers! No place better to talk baseball and God than with Craig, a beer ,and a burger !! My only regret is I didn’t spend enough time with him ! I will miss him greatly.  But we will have a beer and burger again I’m sure and he will fill me in on all the in and outs in heaven !! Lov ya Craig.
May 21, 2020
May 21, 2020
While I never had the pleasure to meet Brother Craig, the tributes from Lisa and others, along with Craig's Testimony up till 93/94 provides deep insight into who he was, is and will be, as God Almighty Restores His Kingdom and fulfils His Promises to the World. Obviously a deeply held FAITH in Jesus, shaped and molded Craig's Life and priorities, and thus impacted more Lives, choices and decisions than we will ever know, this side of Eternity! God's Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our paths, may we be wise and obedient enough seek His illuminating Truths.

Lisa, our Family offers our Heartfelt condolences to YOU and your Family and our prayerful agreement for God's Blessings, Peace, Comfort, Strength and Provision as you say farewell for now to your Beloved Craig. May all the AWESOME Memories that you and Craig created bring SMILES that will always vanquish the sorrow and grief. May his Homecoming to God's Promises bring more HALLELUJAHS than tears.

God's Truths are worth KNOWING, LIVING & SHARING ... Obviously You BOTH know that WELL !

There are so many deceptive Religions, Doctrines and Cults, that preach a "different" Jesus. A different set of Doctrines. A different value or standard of "works" than that which God Almighty expressly provides in HIS Word, The Word made Flesh ... Jesus Messiah. Disciples of Jesus, know that Christianity is not a Religion, but rather a RELATIONSHIP with The One True Savior and Lord Jesus!

One can only be Redeemed, Rescued, Renewed and ADOPTED into His Eternal Kingdom Family, by His Way, though His Son JESUS and His Sacrifice and Gift of Grace.

May God Almighty continue to gift You with the means, the Faith to Live and Share His Redeeming Truths and Love worth finding and continue Craig's passion as titled in his Memorial !

Jesus Christ ... The Wise Still Seek Him and The World NEEDS Him !!!

With our Love ❤ and {{{Hugs}}}

Matt & Nancy Studd & Family in Tennessee
May 21, 2020
May 21, 2020
Dear Lisa and family,
My heart breaks for your loss, but I also rejoice that Craig is with our Savior in splendor and glory unimaginable! "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him." (1 Cor 2:9)
I pray that God will surround you with His peace and comfort, that He will provide strength in your weakness, and be your anchor of hope always.
Sending love and deepest condolences,
Debi (Fordham) Mazzotta
May 21, 2020
May 21, 2020
Dear Craig, surely your life was woven with so much grace and truth. Thank you for bringing the light of God's love to so many. You absolutely lived out the life of God that was planted in your soul. Your voice challenging us to walk more truly to Jesus' footsteps will be missed. May the Lord bring pure comfort and consolation to you dear Lisa...thank you for providing a place where we can share.
May 21, 2020
May 21, 2020
Yes, indeed, I do remember Craig as being somewhat challenging and, to a degree, a little intimidating. I knew him from Calvary Community Church and, possibly, the ACTS II school (don't remember whether he actually attended but he seemed to hang out a lot with the students that wen there). Anyway, I was traveling in a car with him and a few other guys and I mentioned a line from a lyric of a song from a popular Christian artist (one associated with the late David Wilkerson) and immediately he challenged me over the line. It was, as I recall, a good challenge but his delivery was indeed a force to reckon with!! He was indeed very firm in his beliefs and, though, Hermaneutics was mentioned, I believe that Apologetics could have been close behind. He was an awesome brother who cared for and fought for the faith!
May 20, 2020
May 20, 2020
I am in awe of the many, many things Craig did, loved, tried.. those that he touched, helped, mentored.The fight he waged, with so much grace, strength and faith. Lisa was second only to God in his life, and a I am SO blessed to be called her friend. I feel like I didn’t even scratch the surface in knowing all the important things in Craig’s life...yet I know LISA was his number one partner, helper and love... and as her friend, I feel even closer to him now, even tho he’s with our Lord. Lisa... I can’t imagine the hole Craig’s leaving this world has left in your life, yet I know your strength will get you thru each day, each hour when needed! Craig may be with God... but a God is with you... you are not alone! Love you my friend
May 20, 2020
May 20, 2020
Besides all of the incredible conversations on topics ranging from A-Z in religion/faith, politics, alternative-free energy, science, history and conspiracy, there is one occasion that forever put Craig in the extreme adventure category that I have always admired him for. On our second trip canyoneering he jumped a 55 foot jump into a river. The first trip, he saw the cliff and for the next year he talked about it "I'm going to make that jump as my first jump next year". Low and behold, as we approached the river a year later, I jumped the 20 footer with everyone else, but Craig and a few veteran jumpers just ran and jumped without even looking or psyching themselves out first. The impact ripped the watch right off of Craig's wrist. I never had the guts to make a jump like that, but Craig did. Craig has alway walked his talk, no matter what the subject was. I'll see you on the last day my friend.
May 20, 2020
May 20, 2020
Craig holds a special place in my heart for a many reasons. His love for you, Lisa, and his love for Christ are forefront.

When I first came to calvary to work with Messanger Int'l, I was a young 20 yr old girl living 3000 miles away from my parents for the first time. He and this band of friends took me into their group and showed me what true friendship is. Craig made a comment early on (not sure I remember it exactly) about photographing my beautiful face. I was taken aback, but it was the first time I felt that someome thought I was beautiful (other than my Dad). and it made an impact in my life.

He taught me to paint; making a W on the walls with a roller; how to cut in like a pro, and how not to be afraid to get my hands dirty, even as a girl.  Even to this day EVERYTIME I paint in my home, I thank the Lord for you and Craig for teaching me life skills I wouldn't have without you!

Living in the young adults dorms, you guys taught me about working as a team and working to bless and serve in the church. I hated vacuuming the church balcony and cleaning those Sunday school bathrooms, but I felt proud to sit in that sanctuary each week knowing that I had done my part to honor what was being given to me (a place to stay and food to eat). Those are times I cherish the most in my life as a young single woman.

Thank you both for obeying God's word and serving those around you and God!

He will be missed dearly!
May 19, 2020
May 19, 2020
This is from Ted Bechtel

It was such a surprising blessing to meet you two in Cabo over a decade ago.. As you may remember, Craig and I had many engaging spiritual discussions during our time together. Also, it was during a visit in San Jose del Cabo when he introduced me to the pleasures of single-malt scotch and Cuban cigars. It was on another memorable occasion, due to your generosity, that I joined you two and your lovely niece (and drinking buddy) in Puerto Vallarta. If I remember correctly, we explored a Hemingway residence and practiced some yoga together there. When I tried to return the favor inviting you two to share my timeshare in Cabo, he wrote me that you were busy planning an innovative educational project here in Colorado. I think that was the last time I heard from “the lion of a man”.

Craig is one of the most courageous and interesting men I have ever met. It is an honor to have considered him my friend. I will never forget our talks together, his fascinating life adventures, and his contributions to my spiritual growth.

Despite his peaceful passing, there have been so many challenges for you supporting him through his serious health difficulties, many of which he valiantly battled to suspend. My deepest condolences for what must be the heartbreak of missing the love of your life. Please let me know if there’s anything I can do to help alleviate your pain. May loving memories eventually lead us to peace.

With love and best wishes,
Ted Bechtel
May 18, 2020
May 18, 2020
My Dearest Papa. You are so very dear to me, your unconditional love, your guidance, you taught me so much, that I am forever grateful for. You were like a father to me and I will remember and love you always. Until I see you again in Heaven with our Lord.
May 18, 2020
May 18, 2020
But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.

For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

-Romans 6: 22-23

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