On March 2, 2020 we lost the best thing that ever happened to us. As a family we were devastated. After sharing the news of Craig’s passing, we realized that he had adopted the world as his second family. We, all of us, now have an internal void that will never be filled. We were so blessed to learn many valuable lessons from Craig, among them:
Don’t waste time on negativity because you’ll miss the moments that count.
Always keep your cool even as the co-leader of a church youth group while on a 17-hour van ride to the mountains for a camping trip.
Be the person your boss and co-workers can count on no matter what.
Build others up with smiles and encouraging words, and always have their backs.
Be a mentor by answering questions and offering advice. If someone happens to be from another country and you have trouble understanding them, be patient, listen, and consider the friendships you could create.
Give your time to every organization that asks – especially those involving food and the arts.
Always cheer for your favorite football team (CHIEFS) even in their off years because you have faith.
Celebrate this event called life by living it to the fullest.
Never forget that one person can make a difference through small acts of kindness.
Above all, Craig wrote — to everyone, about everything so thank goodness for Facebook and the ability to text. You may read this and recall a message that touched your heart, tickled your funny bone, or maybe made you say “huh?” and wonder when he had time to sleep.
Craig received a call; a sort of a volunteer offer you can’t refuse. This new volunteer role comes with a huge bonus - a reunion with family, friends and pets he has not seen in a long time. His role takes him to a wonderful place where he will be socializing and judging barbeque and food competitions to his heart’s content. Laughter and love are guaranteed. Food is delicious and you never gain an ounce (not that he ever had to worry about that anyway). He would want his family and friends to celebrate life, connect with others, and to do your part to carry on his legacy. #BELIKECRAIG
Craig is survived by his Cats (Sammy and Susie), his sister Joyce; his brother Steve and Wife Linda, their children Shawn (wife Cindy, Children Jake and Reese) And Shannon (husband Wade, and son Henry.) His Uncle David Bieber and Aunt Lucy Tippin and many cousins and friends, too numerous to list but not forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the charity of your choice in Craig’s name. If volunteering is more your style, than do that and remember him.
Craig's celebration of life at the American Royal has been postponed due to Mayor Lucas's restrictions on gatherings. We are anticipating a large crowd and agree on keeping everyone safe and healthy. We will update the service details as soon as a new date is set. Thank you for your understanding.
This will be a celebration, so we ask that in lieu of wearing the traditional colors of mourning, please show up wearing attire as you knew him (Chiefs Kingdom, Spire and MGE, KCBS, World Food Championships, SCA, Starlight, Kauffman Center for Performing Arts or KC Cares volunteers, or church (perhaps something fit for a Sunday morning or a camping trip). Craig never knew a stranger and will love seeing everyone in his world coming together.
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