John Edward Craig

February 18, 1944-April 12, 2017

Kansas City and its legal community mourn the loss of one of its most dynamic souls. John worked as an active lawyer to the day he died, often appearing in 3 or 4 different courts or counties on the same day (or night). In earlier years, he worked for the firm of Levy and Craig which has existed for more than 80 years. The firm was formed by his father Bernard Duffy Craig, Sr. and Joseph S. Levy, and originally included Abraham Granoff. John’s brother Bernard Duffy Craig, Jr. was also a member of the firm. John was preceded in death by his father, and by his mother Margaret Mary Conrad Craig. He is survived by his beloved daughters Erin and Haley (Joel Gay) and grand-daughters Aliyah and Harper, his sisters JoAnne Fanganello (Joseph) and Kathleen Harbert (Lloyd) as well as Bernie and his wife Maryann. He is also mourned by many nephews and nieces who will greatly miss their Uncle John.

John’s life was as full and rich as could be told in the best novel. He was a standout athlete, a seminarian, an actor studying at Pasadena Playhouse (in the days of Robert Redford), an orderly in a charitable hospital in London during the Vietnam war years, a U.S. Army veteran, and an expert in music, sports, movies and rock ‘n roll.

He played hard, and loud, drove fast, and made judges and his fellow lawyers work hard, while having a laugh never an instant away.

He was sightless in one eye, hard of hearing, a cancer survivor, a daily manager of diabetes, and he lived with a transplanted liver for the last decade. His heart finally failed and his organs then quickly dysfunctioned. His daughters each held a hand as he passed at KU

medical center.

He was sartorially challenged and his ever-present rumpled coat, tie and trousers was highlighted with the fashion accessory of a bright lanyard around his neck containing his car and house keys so that his rapid pace was not hindered by unnecessary search. His dad, brother Bernie, and brother-in-law Joe all practiced law for 50 plus years and several nephews are following the legacy. John was always right there joining/leading the efforts. He singularly and superbly raised his daughters from start to finish; Erin was a talented musician. Haley was/is a nationally ranked tennis player, winning the Kansas State championship in 2005. John’s focus was on living and serving. He was never far from his kids/grandkids, siblings, family and clients. He was greatly loved, and is and will be greatly missed. More than a few judges and colleagues will join the family in waiting to hear his loud, raucous, brilliant voice, laughter and wit. On these days of Easter and Passover, we say l’chaim (Life!) and may he rest in peace. We give thanks for having been given the presence of the loving vital soul of our beloved John.