Obituary of Justin F. Craig

Justin F. Craig

Justin F. Craig passed away on Friday, February 9, 2018, at the age of 38, while snowmobiling, which was one of his many favorite outdoor activities.  Justin also loved fishing around his hometown of Minooka, IL, along with spending many weekends at his lake cabin in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, one of his favorite places on earth.  Justin loved everything unconditionally, from his beautiful family to his great friends. He had an unwavering obsession for the Chicago Bears and Cubs. Justin lived life to the fullest with every opportunity he had.  Anyone who knew him had the fortunate experience of a good laugh, good prank, and good friend.

Not only was he an incredible husband, protective brother, loving son and loyal friend, but his favorite role was being a devoted father to his two beautiful daughters; whom he would do anything for.  That could have been getting a Mani/Pedi, playing American Girl dolls, or having the best tickle party. 

Justin and his loving wife, Karianne, have known each other since their church youth group, and dated as teenagers.  They rekindled their relationship as adults building a solid foundation for their marriage, life, and family on trust, friendship, and endless love. 

Justin attended Minooka Community High School and was a Journeymen Pipefitter with Local 597, employed by BMWC Constructors working at Mobil Oil Refinery in Channahon, IL.  He had a deep respect for his profession and his union brothers. 

He is survived by his wife, Karianne (nee Cronkrite); his daughters, Evelyn (age 8) and Elsie (age 5); his parents, Mike and Cheryl (nee Thompson) Craig; his brother, Matthew Craig; his wife’s parents, Marc (Amanda) Cronkrite and Marsha (Steve Wnek) Cronkrite;  his sisters-in-law, Cassie Van Tassel, Caitlyn (Adam Hill) Cronkrite, Lauren Cronkrite , and Vivienne Cronkrite; and one brother-in-law, Kyle (Ali) Wnek.  He adored his nieces and nephews, Elaina, Kivlin, and Lilly Van Tassel, Kyler and Paylee Hill.  Not to mention, dozens of lifelong friends.  He was beyond proud to be a Craig and is survived by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins, who meant the world to him and who he loved dearly. 

There is joy in knowing that he was welcomed into heaven and God’s loving arms by his younger sister, Meredith Lee Craig (2007). He is also preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Nancy and Frederick Thompson; paternal grandparents, Marjorie and William D. Craig; his uncle, William (Bud) Craig; and cousin, Carole Nash.

Justin’s journey was driven by his love for life and fueled by his ability to make other people smile.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2018 at 12:00 p.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet, IL.  As it was his request, cremation rites have been accorded.  Memorial Visitation will be held on Friday from 3-8 p.m. and again on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m.  In Lieu of flowers, memorials to the Craig family for his daughter’s education would be appreciated.  For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit his memorial tribute at www.fredcdames.com