Craig Xandor Kittendorf

Craig Xandor Kittendorf, 78, of Crawfordville, Florida, passed away on April 13, 2026, surrounded by family. Born on January 5, 1948, in Miami, Florida, Craig lived a life rich with purpose, curiosity, and dedication to his family and passions.

Craig graduated from Miami Edison High School, where he excelled both academically and athletically as a member of the football team and the Honor Society. His thirst for knowledge and leadership continued at Florida State University, where he earned a degree in Engineering Science in 1971. During his time at FSU, Craig was an active member and president of Alpha Phi Omega and served as an Explorer Scout Leader. It was also at FSU that he met Gayla Apling, who would become his beloved wife and soulmate of 54 years.

Craig dedicated over three decades of his professional life to the State of Florida as a system programmer. After retiring from his career in technology, he found new purpose volunteering at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. His commitment to the refuge led to a part-time ranger position where he served as a visitor assistant and managed their social media and websites. Craig also contributed to significant projects such as air quality monitoring, Operation Migration (bringing whooping cranes to the refuge), and the restoration of the historic St. Marks Lighthouse and its Fresnel lens.

A man of many talents and interests, Craig enjoyed reading, nature photography, hiking, string art, wood carving, and other woodworking pursuits. He cherished road trips with his family, especially to National Parks across the country. As a longtime member of the Florida Lighthouse Association and a delegate for the St. Marks Lighthouse, Craig had a deep passion for preserving history and educating others about it. He often served as a docent at the lighthouse while proudly wearing his lightkeeper uniform, a role that brought him great joy.

Craig’s wry sense of humor and love for puns endeared him to those who knew him. His insatiable curiosity about nature and mechanics allowed him to acquire a wealth of knowledge on countless topics. He especially delighted in learning about the history of the St. Marks Lighthouse and contributing to its preservation.

Craig is survived by his devoted wife Gayla Apling Kittendorf; daughters Kirsten Brazier (Ian), Katrina Stockstill (Steve), and Sara Kittendorf; grandchildren Penelope Brazier, Xander Stockstill, Rylee Stockstill, and Michael Kittendorf; as well as many friends who were touched by his kindness and wit. He was preceded in death by his parents Delmar and Dorothy Kittendorf; brothers Walter Tucker, Delmar Jr., Richard, and Terry Kittendorf; daughter Tamara Kittendorf; and nephew Steven Kittendorf.

In honor of Craig’s legacy and love for education and conservation efforts at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, donations may be made to St. Marks Refuge Education Programs (stmarksrefuge.org/donate) or Florida Lighthouse Association (floridalighthouses.org), in lieu of flowers.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 9:00am, on May 1, 2026, at the St. Marks Lighthouse, located in the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, 1255 Lighthouse Rd, St. Marks, FL. Craig would want everyone to be comfortable. Feel free to dress casually.