Thursday, February 18, 2010
I have read many tributes to Craig and condolences to the families for they're loss and each has touched me in a different way and compelled me to write this brief note to all who knew Craig or new one of his family members in some way. I must first start by saying how truly proud I was to be his cousin. I knew Craig well as a young person and I knew him better as a man and let me tell you what a Man he had become. He was a man that we as husbands, fathers, sons, and brothers would do well to follow by his example. He became an unbelievable Father and husband and I admired this accomplishment every time we would visit each others homes in Alberta. Being a loving son and brother came natural to Craig and he wore that hat proudly too. I spent seven years in Alberta with Craig being my only relative out west and it was truly a treat when the phone would ring and that familiar happy voice on the other end would say " Hello cousin Bill " we're coming your way are you going to be home? Our visits were always good. A bite to eat, a cold drink, some good laughs, and some great chats. Craig and I had more in common then I think either of us ever knew and I learned through his close buddy's this past week that he had admired me every bit as much as I had admired him and I just hope he knows how very much I thought of him. His passing has touched me in a way that I can't explain and I saw first hand by the hundreds of people who celebrated his life that I'm not alone. Deanne, Emily, and Meghan how very fortunate you were to have loved and been loved by Craig he was truly a special person with such a kind spirit. To all of Craig's family especially Aunt Betty and Renee always know that he was loved by so many for so many reasons and he has made such an impression on us all that his name will always be spoken with pride, love and a really big smile. Craig, one day we'll meet again and when we do that hand shake and hug will be a hello instead of good-bye. Cousin Bill and Family
