Craig Anthony Staples

Craig A. Staples passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 5, 2010 at the age of 35. Loving son of Theresa (Russ) Ballenger and Richard (Ruth) Staples. Dear brother of Jacob (Jenny) Staples, Jodi (Chris) Pagels, Rebecca Staples, Sara (Joel) Yantis and Caitlin Staples. Proud uncle of Kayla and soon to be Tyler. Grandson of Agnes Strommen and Holly & Jim Ballenger. Nephew of Eileen Boutan, Connie Davis, Victoria Fleming, Susan Koloske, Pat McDougall, Kathy Houghard, Randy (Colleen) Staples and Brian (Charlene) Staples. Craig will be missed by many other relatives and dear friends. Craig was preceded in death by his grandparents Vernon & Helen Staples and his uncle Robert Staples.

Craig was born in Racine, but moved to Stevens Point when he was in the 5th grade. He graduated from SPASH in 1993, and attended Carthage College for 2 years before taking a short stint in the Army Reserves, studying Russian. After the Army, he returned to Stevens Point and worked as an assistant manager at Perkins. Over the years, he worked in management at several restaurant chains, Hooters, Pizzeria Uno, Chili's and lastly Applebee's, at various locations around Wisconsin and New York. Craig advanced to General Manager, taking charge of the Grand Avenue Applebee's store in Milwaukee, mentoring many entering the management role. The staff loved him, nicknaming him Craigerz (takeoff on his Russian knowledge).

In May 2010, he made a life change; leaving Applebee's to go back to school full-time at the UW of Milwaukee, with his majoring being Information Technology. Craig received an internship at Ladish Co. Inc. in Cudahy as a computer programmer, and was excited with the opportunity, hoping to be hired upon graduation in 2011. His friends and co-workers have shared how Craig was determined, driven, and goal orientated. He was uncomplicated and honest, hard when needed, and surprisingly compassionate at just the right times, giving generously to Children's Hospital, and donating gifts to the Alma House at Christmas. His family, friends and co-workers will miss his light-hearted view on life, his generosity, and his caring spirit. Craig is no longer a part of our days, but he will always be a part of our hearts.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, November 20th at 1 PM at Advantage Funeral Home, 11030 W. Forest Home Ave. with a visitation from 10 AM until time of Service. A Private Interment will be held at a later date by the family in Wild Rose, WI.

Arrangements under the direction of Advantage Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Hales Corners, WI.