Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
About
William Thatcher Obituary
Born in New London, Conn., Craig was raised in Hinsdale, Ill., attended Dartmouth College and the University of Toulouse Medical School. While in school, he became an accomplished pianist who participated in various competitions.
It was always his goal to pursue a career in medicine, and while he was studying for his degree, he met the love of his life, Michele, a classmate of his, and the daughter of a local physician and pharmacist. Their first son, David Francois Olivier, was born in Toulouse.
Following their graduation, they moved to Buffalo, N.Y., where both completed internships, and their second child, John Christopher, was born. Craig and Michele then moved to Chicago, where he completed a residency in thoracic and cardiovascular surgery at Rush Presbyterian St. Luke's Hospital.
Following three years as an instructor in surgery at Loyola University Medical Center, he joined Elgin Cardiac Surgery in 1984, which is now known as Northern Illinois Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery. In 2006, Craig started the Vein and Laser Center, now a part of the practice. He was a member of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He was a compassionate doctor, loved and admired by patients and colleagues.
He was also a devoted family man, whose generosity of spirit was showered upon all members of the extended family. He hosted an annual family reunion attended by dozens of relatives from all over the world. It became a highlight for all who could attend. A true gentleman, he had a sophisticated appreciation of fine art, good food and wine, and classical music.
He is survived by his two loving sons, David Francois Olivier and John Christopher; his mother, Jean Thatcher; one sister, Jane Williamson (Rich); four brothers, Andy (Barb), David, Aaron (Kelly), and Adam; eight nieces and nephews; and seven great- nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, March 1, at Yurs Funeral Home, 405 E. Main St. (corner of routes 25 and 64), St. Charles, IL 60174. Services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 2, at Yurs Funeral Home.
Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 143 S. First St., Batavia, IL 60510, in honor of Michele Thatcher.
To leave an online condolence or remembrance to the family, visit the funeral home's obituary page at www.yursfuneralhomes.com. For more information, please call Yurs Funeral Home of St. Charles at 630-584-0060.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Thatcher
Nini Boudaghian
March 14, 2018
Dr Craig Thatcher was a great and pleasant man who was married to my friend Dr,Michelle Thatcher I was always having great time with the family and their loving two sons.I will never forget the memories we had at all the times .They will never be forgotten in my life time God Bless both of them. .
Bob Tiballi
March 10, 2013
I worked with Dr. Thatcher for some 16 years. Nights when I suffered thinking I was the only doctor in the hospital, I would see him running off to operate on an emergent case. He worked tirelessly on behalf of his patients. He was always pleasant and optimistic even in troubling times. He affected a great many lives nearly always in greatly favorable ways.
I will miss him.
March 7, 2013
My sadness for the loss of a great physician, a unique gentlemen and a respected and trusted colleague . May rest in peace and find eternal peace
Irina Staicu, MD
Joel Jones
March 6, 2013
I am saddened to hear of Dr. Thatcher's sudden passing. He was an excellent physician and helped myself and many like me with his skill and expertise. Dr. Thatcher was always an enthusiastic , intelligent, and committed surgeon and my heart goes out to his family and friends.
JoAnn Hurd
March 6, 2013
The loss of a dad leaves a large void. Please know that because of your dad being who he was a great deal of people lived, learned, and passed on that knowledge.
Loretta Mangum
March 3, 2013
Only had the pleasure off seeing Dr. Thatcher several times and liked him inmediately. Always had a smile on his face. Really made me feel good doing the surgery on my leg with joking and talking. God was waiting with open arms for him Im sure. God Bless.
G K
March 2, 2013
I had the honor of working with and learning from Dr Thatcher. My sincerest sympathy to you.
Pam Meyer
March 1, 2013
Dr. Thatcher was the most compassionate person. I am honored to say I worked with him. he will be missed. My prayers are with the family
Amy Muscat
March 1, 2013
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Mardell Robinson
March 1, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of his passing he was a great doctor and neighbor. My prayers are with your family.
Caryn Beisner RN
March 1, 2013
Dr. Thatcher had left an impression on me for his compassion and professionalism. I considered it an honor to have worked with him.
Maxine Herra
February 28, 2013
A wonderful man...a wonderful doctor. God Bless.
Showing 1 - 15 of 15 results
Make a Donation
in William Thatcher's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for William Thatcher
How to support William's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor William Thatcher's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
