George Craig

George Craig, Jr. was born on April 10, 1927, to George and Minnie (Simon) Craig and was raised in Chicago, IL. He lived 99 remarkable years and passed away in Lindenhurst, Illinois, on August 9, 2026. The oldest of four children, he was the last surviving child of his parents. Throughout his long life, George was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great‑grandfather, great‑great‑grandfather, uncle, great‑uncle, cousin, nephew, and friend. George served as a Tech 5 in the United States Army Signal Corps. Inducted at Fort Sheridan and trained at Fort Sill, he was stationed in the Bavarian region of Germany as part of the post‑war occupation forces. From 1946 to 1948, he carried out his duties with quiet dedication and pride. He married Ruth Irene Koch on October 14, 1950, and together they raised three children: Cynthia, Sharon, and Alan. George grew up and later raised his own family in the Jefferson Park neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. Like his wife, he was a third‑generation member of Eden Church and worshiped there for many years before relocating to Lake Villa, Illinois, where he attended St. Mark Lutheran Church. A machinist by trade, he spent more than twenty years with MPC. George found joy in building, fixing, and creating, and he poured that joy into the people he loved. Whether he was caring for Eden Church as a Trustee or crafting heirloom furniture, dollhouses, wooden American flags, or the picture frames that held Ruth’s cross‑stitch masterpieces, his hands were always busy making beauty that would outlast him. These pieces—still cherished in the homes of family and friends—are more than objects; they are living reminders of his devotion, his creativity, and the quiet, solid way he showed love. He was a man who delighted in motion and imagination: building and flying model airplanes, tending to model trains, golfing, bowling, pitching horseshoes, fishing, and eventually designing and riding his unforgettable double‑decker bike. George was never idle. He lived his life in action, in craft, and in care. Nothing brought him greater happiness than creating something that would endure—something that would bring pride, joy, and connection to the people he treasured. And through it all, he remained a Chicagoan at heart—faithful to his Blackhawks, Bulls, Bears, and Cubs. He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Ruth Irene (Koch) Craig (d. May 3, 2020), and is survived by his children Cynthia Roth, Sharon (James) Schranz, and Alan (Dee) Craig; seven grandchildren—Heather, Katie, Adam, Jessica, Jacob, Alison, and Briana—seventeen great‑grandchildren, and one great‑great‑grandchild. His family, spanning five generations, remains a living testament to the love, devotion, and strength he carried throughout his life. George will be interred at Fort Sheridan National Cemetery alongside his wife during a private service. A celebration of George’s life for family and friends will be held at Ringa Funeral Home, 122 S Milwaukee Ave., Lake Villa, IL on Friday Sept 11 from 3 pm - 6 pm. All who knew him, loved him, or were touched by his kindness are warmly invited to attend and share in honoring his memory. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial donations be made to: Eden United Church of Christ 5051 W Gunnison St. Chicago, IL 60630 or through their website www.edenuccchicago.org in memory of George Craig. The family appreciates the love and support extended during this time.

George Craig

April 10, 1927 - August 9, 2026

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