Craig Metzner

Craig Allen Metzner, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, ran into the arms of his Savior, passing away peacefully at his home in Wyoming, Michigan on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the age of 70. Born on January 12, 1955, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he was the son of Albert and Joyce Metzner (née Perrin).

Craig leaves behind his devoted wife of 50 years, Sharon Metzner (née Patterson), and their eight wonderful children: Shannon (Jeff) Turner, Shadric (Brittany) Metzner, Shelby (Ian) Labardee, Arianna (Jean) de Sena, Olivia (Julio) Rivera, Hannah (Joshua) Flynn, Selah (Tyler) Cutlip, and Fuchsia (Conlin) Syren. He was a proud grandfather to 14 grandchildren and had recently begun the journey of being a great-grandfather, a role he embraced with joy.

A lifelong Detroit sports fan, Craig passionately supported the Lions, Tigers, and Pistons through every high and low. After earning his Bachelor of Business Administration from Davenport College and his Master of Business Administration from Western Michigan University, Craig spent 25 successful years in management with General Motors. In 2011, following a deep calling to ministry, he was ordained with the Assemblies of God, retiring from the corporate world to serve as a missionary. Craig dedicated 13 years to missions work in mainland China, followed by eight years serving domestically. His life's mission was clear: to ensure every ear had the chance to hear the life-transforming message of the Gospel.

Craig will be remembered for his deep love of vintage Gospel music and the timeless sounds of Lawrence Welk. Known for his dry, endearing sense of humor and classic "dad jokes," he brought smiles and laughter wherever he went. He served his community faithfully as a coach and referee for youth athletics and was an ever-reliable expert for school projects. Above all, Craig was a man of deep compassion who loved people and fiercely cherished his family.

His life was a testimony of service, faith, and love. Craig’s legacy will continue to shine brightly through the lives of all those he touched.

There will be a memorial visitation from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Thursday, May 1, 2025 at Cook Memorial Chapel, 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. There will be a time of sharing at 11:30 a.m. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.