Russell Frank Craig, 67, a cherished member of the Geauga County community, passed away on Feb. 15, 2024, at University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center.
He was born on March 28, 1956, in Painesville, to Leslie G. and Ruth Frances (nee Piras) Craig and remained a steadfast resident of Geauga County throughout his life.
Russell, known affectionately as Russ, was a graduate of Chardon High School’s class of 1975. During his high school years, he excelled in athletics, finding joy in football, basketball and baseball.
Following his graduation, Russ embarked on a fulfilling career with Claridon Heating, then as a machinist, retiring from Princeton Tool.
For an impressive span of 47 years, Russ was an integral part of the Geauga Aerie #2261 FOE. He contributed his time and energy to the club, serving as a bartender for over 30 years.
Russ’s love for sports extended beyond the field; he enjoyed leisure activities such as golf, softball and bowling. His passion for bowling was evident in his remarkable achievement of a near-perfect score of “299” at Ernst Lanes in Chardon, an accomplishment celebrated by Joe Ernst presenting him with the bowling pin he missed!
Russ was also an enthusiastic collector of sports memorabilia and an avid supporter of teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs, Boston Celtics, Chicago Cubs and the Montreal Canadiens.
He found great joy in attending rock concerts, favoring performances by legendary bands like the Rolling Stones, Rush and the memorable World Series of Rock at the old Cleveland Stadium.
Russ is survived by his loving sister and brother, Linda Craig and David (Lisa) Craig, both residing in Chardon. He also leaves behind his nephew, David (Melissa) Craig Jr., of Kent, and his niece, Dr. Bethany (Mike) Doroghazi, of Mayfield;as well as his great-niece, Claire Doroghazi and great-nephew, Samuel Doroghazi.
Russ is also survived by his stepsisters, Sharon (Bill) Keller, Pam (Richard) Stanley, Chris (Ned) McDonald; stepbrothers,Jeff (Alisha) Gifford and Roger (Nicole) Gifford, as well as stepnieces and stepnephews.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during a visitation from 4-6 p.m. Feb. 23, 2024, followed by a memorial service officiated by the Eagles at 6 p.m., at Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 116 South St., Chardon.
In honor of Russ’s memory, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.supportwoundedwarriorproject.org; Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10306, www.t2t.org/donate; or any wildlife preservation organization of your choosing.
Expressions of sympathy, condolences and cherished memories can be shared online at www.burrservice.com.
Russ’s legacy of warmth, kindness and passion for life will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
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