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Craig Menke Obituary

Menke, Craig
July 18, 1969-Feb. 28, 2014
Craig Menke, 44, of Sarasota, FL has earned his angel wings. He courageously battled cancer with his ever-present smile and positive attitude that made him a hero to his family and friends.
His eternal optimism and contagious smile inspired everyone he touched. Known to many as "The Spoon Man" for his constant presence as owner of The Serving Spoon, Craig brought our community together with his upbeat spirit and love of life.
He always considered his family to be his greatest accomplishment. His true legacy will be his 5 children who adored him and his playful ways and unconditional love. He is survived by Natasha, his wife and best friend and their sons Christopher, Jordan, Spenser, and Parker; and precious daughter Ella.
Craig is also survived by his parents Frank and Linda Menke; maternal grandmother Dorothy Walters; 1 brother; 2 sisters; 4 nephews and 4 nieces; 1 uncle and 4 aunts; and 8 cousins.
Services will be held at Church of the Redeemer, 222 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota on Thursday, March 6, 2014 at 6:00pm with a reception to follow in Gillespie Hall. Should friends desire and in lieu of flowers, a memorial has been set up for Craig's children's education fund. Donations to the "Menke Family Education Trust" can be mailed to The Serving Spoon c/o Menke Family Trust 1825 S. Osprey Ave. Sarasota, FL 34239.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Herald Tribune from Mar. 4 to Mar. 5, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Craig Menke

Sponsored by The Menke Family.

77 Entries

Charlotte

February 26, 2025

My husband Randy Lloyd always said to me that Craig was his super hero .

Randy Lloyd

February 28, 2024

Randy said all the time that Craig was his hero! Always in our hearts!

Randy Lloyd

February 26, 2023

Never forgotten.

Randy Lloyd

February 26, 2022

ALWAYS in my heart!

Randy Lloyd

February 27, 2020

Still remembering your laugh,smile,and grace. Miss ya.

Randy Lloyd

February 26, 2019

You will be in many peoples hearts for years to come. I being one. Miss ya.

randy lloyd

January 27, 2016

You will always be my hero.

January 26, 2016

frank and linda i am so sorry i love you guys your always panch.

martha

February 4, 2015

I'm sorry for this families loss. Every time I hear some one say anything about my a1c I remember him always asking me about mine and his genuine interest .We shared stories of our little set back.I am so proud to call him friend. Rip my friend.

Randy Lloyd

July 12, 2014

Still think of you daily. Your compassion and charm - as well as a keen wit will always be remembered.

Mich Read

July 11, 2014

Craig always inspired me to believe that our Diabetes could be cured. His love of family made me want to work harder to be a better wife..mother..and person.

Christian Payer

May 13, 2014

It was with great sadness today that my partners and I learned Craig had passed. In a world of often shallow misleading business people, Craig was a beacon of honesty, integrity and fairness. I consider it an honor to have met him 3 years ago and only wish I could have continued to be his friend. Craig knew well these words of Abraham Lincoln "In the end it is not the years in your life that count. it's the life in your years." Rest well my friend, you are and will be missed.

April 3, 2014

To Craig's Family,
Our positive thoughts are sent your way and we know that you all will carry on with Craig's great spirit.
Chris Skelton & Bob Peters

Linda & Tom Gregory

March 26, 2014

Dear Menke Family,
We had the pleasure of meeting Craig at The Serving Spoon. He was always smiling and always took the time to greet and talk. He was hard working and business savvy. He loved his family and was full of life. Please take peace in knowing you will not only see him again one day, but his spirit will always be around to help guide you and share those moments of life's joy that you were saddened to think he would be missing. God bless you all!

Beth Townsend

March 26, 2014

Natasha, when I think of you and Craig I think about the wonderful family you created together and what fun it was to be around you. I'm glad you were able to slip away to NC those years ago and enjoy the waterfall and trails...each of you carrying- or holding hands- with the kids. I have a sweet visual memory of that visit. While it is such a sad time for you, I pray that the wonderful legacy you built together will give you strength in the days to come, and great faith in your future.

Debi Stewart

March 23, 2014

Dear Menke Family,

My thoughts and prayers are with you and pray that the close family bonds that helped you all throughout Craig's valiant fight with his illness will carry you through this sad time. Craig is at peace again and his beautiful spirit lives on in his 4 fantastic children. I was fortunate to be able to attend the service when I was visiting Sarasota for spring break and it was heartwarming to see at least 800 present as well a very busy Serving Spoon 2 weeks later at breakfast. Lee's eulogy should be saved for the family it was so perfect.

Best to allof you.

Sherry F. Ellis

March 22, 2014

Natasha, you are a pillar of strength and the love and positive energy you and Craig embraced is so rare.
My thoughts are with you and all your family members,
Sherry F. Ellis

Cyndi Flanagan

March 15, 2014

I was shocked to learn the news too late to be immediately among the many friends and acquaintances giving warmth and comfort to an amazing man and family. I was lucky enough to be present when this beautiful couple said "I do" and I'm grateful to have been able to see such strength in love and parenting (and in business and fun) as Natasha and Craig have shown. Blessings and strength continue with such a strong example for the future.

March 15, 2014

Joey Cass

March 15, 2014

My Thoughts And Prayers Are With You At This Most Difficult Time...Craig Fought A Battle With The Utmost Courage...He Will Be Remembered For His Smile As Well As His Bravery...Gone But Not Forgotten

Liz Cousins

March 15, 2014

I am so sad to hear of Craig's passing, but my Mom, Dee Dee Cousins and I are proud to have known him and his family. Heaven is having a heck of a party with him up there.

Connie Garrett

March 8, 2014

My thoughts & prayers are with the Menke family, Craig was a special person that made everyone feel so welcome at his restaurant, always smiling,so upbeat right up to the end.Heaven is rejoicing having him come home, missed but not forgotten <3

Kate Donahue & Gary Tepe

March 8, 2014

We were so sad to hear of Craig's passing...he will make a wonderful angel. Our most heartfelt condolences to the entire Menke family at this difficult time. Peace to your hearts and memories. He was very special to everyone who was lucky enough to know him.

Kate Donahue & Gary Tepe
- customers of The Serving Spoon

Pat Hubbard

March 7, 2014

When I first heard of Craig's passing, I was immediately brought to tears by the last image I had of him, back in November, 2012. His little daughter was sitting on his lap, kissing and hugging him and laying her head on his chest. It was obvious how she adored him. It is so sad for a family to lose such a special man whom they loved so much.

Candice McLean

March 7, 2014

Sending prayers above for love and comfort during this most difficult time. I'm not sure when we all first met, but I have fond memories of swimming with all of the Menke kids and eating lots of ice cream... in GA I believe! I'm so glad I was able to introduce Chip to Craig and Natasha at The Serving Spoon in 2001. Craig and Natasha were so kind and welcoming and the food was amazing. God Bless you Craig and family. xo

Robert Dizon

March 7, 2014

Dear Craig, it seems like only yesterday I was enjoying breakfast at your old restaurant by the hospital, loving every bite and knowing how lucky I was to know someone as kind and accepting as you. I can't thank you enough for just being exactly who you chose to be in this life, a father, a husband, a friend, a tireless worker for those in need and a straight shooting smiling lover of life! I'm proud I got to meet you in this fickle world, thank you and rest easy...

Joe and Terry Nuckols

March 7, 2014

The first meeting with Craig was in 1973 when Terry and I traveled through Atlanta after getting married. The cutest little boy with a smile bigger than he was really made an impression. With a piece of paper and a crayon, he'd find me and say, "Draw a picture for me Joe." We drew dogs, horses, trees, and anything that fascinated Craig as he'd watch and try to guess with each line what was being drawn. He'd smile. Craig was persistent and find me even at the dinner table. Craig would sneak under the table, tug on my pants cuff, slip me a paper, crayon, and smile. That skill to win with a smile, captivate with his father's charisma paid off big time in his life. He won Natasha's heart and made a great role model for his five children. It seems everyone that met Craig, was touched by his beautiful spirit. Many times, we have bragged about his leadership skills at the Spoon. He greeted everyone, knew their name, favorite table, and some special dish they'd like. Family members who have gone before will welcome Craig home including John Le, Terry's son, that we lost in 1979. He and Craig will really get along as they wait for us.

March 7, 2014

Sarasota Ringling Redskins Lacrosse Team

Brighid Miller

March 6, 2014

Please accept my most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

Christina Alfieri

March 6, 2014

To the Menke Family, my heart goes out to you all. It is never easy to say goodbye to someone you love. No one is ever prepared for it. I am so sorry for your loss of such a wonderful father, son, husband, brother and a friend to many. My prayers are with you. Remember Craig is looking down upon you all with that great smile he will always be remembered for. RIP Craig! Many prayers of strength for you all.

Kandy B

March 6, 2014

To the Menke family, you all are in my heart and prayers as we mourn the passing of Craig. He was admired by many and definitely held his family as his greatest blessings. His wife and kids were always his top priority and I remember many times seeing Craig and Natasha walking the children to southside. Craig always had a smile on his face and had the determination that nothing was going to stop him. Craig fought long and hard and now he will live forever in our hearts and memories. Heaven gained another angel. Craig you will never be forgotten. Your legacy is one that has and will touch us all and your wife and children should be very proud of the husband and father you were. You may be gone from this earth but you will always remain in all of our hearts. Rest in peace Craig

Christina Alfieri

March 6, 2014

Cory Montagano

March 6, 2014

Craig always had the biggest smile on his face and such an amazing husband and father...he will truly be missed by all and forever in our hearts. My most deepest and heartfelt sympathy to Natasha and family...

I miss you so much brother but I know I will see you again one day in heaven! We are sad today but we will celebrate your life and your legacy. Todd

Todd Menke

March 6, 2014

Randy Lloyd

March 6, 2014

You have always been, and will continue to be my hero !! I will always remember you.

Lisa Brandy

March 6, 2014

Praying for peace and Gods holy presence to comfort you.

Caitlin Farnsworth

March 5, 2014

I will forever remember Craig's laugh. It was so contagious and genuine. Craig was first just my boss, but it did not take long for him and Natasha to become role models for how I hope to live my life. I am so honored to have gotten to know him and his family. I will forever think of the women's sanitary box in public restrooms as the "vampire box". Breaking bad will always remind me of you and I will continue to prank as many people as possible in your honor. You are awesome Craig and you are so so missed.

Erin Sepanski

March 5, 2014

My wonderful brother will forever be in my heart thoughts and prayers. I miss him so much. All my love to Natasha and family xo.

Charles McAllister

March 5, 2014

Love, courage, and joy...these are the thoughts that come from remembering Craig. Loving husband, proud and devoted father, loyal friend. Always wringing every last drop of positive energy from life. Craig will be missed, but his life has inspired all who knew him. Love and prayers for Natasha and the family from Kathy and Charlie.

Michael Luciano

March 5, 2014

It is with great sorrow to hear of Craigs passing. A gentle soul, a much respected businessman who always put family first. Forever the smiling optimist. My condolences to Natasha and his loving children.

Aunt Kay

March 5, 2014

I had the privilege of sitting with you, Craig, at O'Leary's, not too long ago. We spoke of what used to be and what was ahead - all the while - you, with a smile on your face, and a peace in your manner. You are missed, but will forever be loved. Natasha, Ella, Parker, Spenser, Jordan and Christopher - my prayers are with you and the family.
(On a lighter note: Grammy said Craig and Cliffy (Grampy) came to visit her today. And I have no doubt they did.)

Eddie Midler

March 5, 2014

RIP in Craig, you fought long and hard, now it's time to rest, i'll always have fond memories of you and your kind heart.Godspeed to your family

CANDACE MARINELLI-HAWORTH

March 5, 2014

You were not our son-in-law but our son. Everything about you will be missed but even though they are not physically here they are emotionally, mentally, spiritually here all the time. Your sense of humor, your laughter, your bright eyes and beautiful smile, your cute bald head, your huge heart, the love and respect you showed your wife, children, and us, and your ever present spirit living on around us forever. You made everyday FATHER'S DAY. Love you much, Mum-Mum & Papa Lee

Gwen Adams

March 5, 2014

RIP Craig! You were one of a kind and will be missed by many! Love & prayers for your family & all that are affected by losing you.

mary wickline

March 5, 2014

I have know Craig for over 20 years and never once have I seen him with out a smile on his face or a positive comment. So much fun and full of life!!! We love you Craig. You will be missed by all who knew you.

Sue Waxman

March 5, 2014

Some people are just so special that they sparkle without effort. He is still Craig Menke just living in another place. Prayers and condolences to family and friends who have broken hearts during this very heartbreaking time.

March 4, 2014

Prayers for family.

March 4, 2014

Prayers for your family.

Martin Rosen

March 4, 2014

Craig always had a smile on his face, I know he was grateful for each day. Such pride in his family , we are all diminished by his passing. I am sure his determination made all of us better.
Marty Rosen

March 4, 2014

you are and were such a fighter!! you brought such inspiration to this world! LOVE LOVE LOVE you CRAIG! RIP ~ sally

April Lambert

March 4, 2014

You were a blessing to all who knew you. Your smile and kindness was always evident. Your beautiful family is a testimony to the man, husband and father you are in the hearts of your loved ones. Much Love and sympathy to you Natasha and family

Rob Lewis

March 4, 2014

My heartfelt condolences and prayers for you and your family. Take comfort in knowing that Craig is in God's presence and at peace. Let God carry each of you when it gets heavy and accept with open hearts and arms His peace and joy. Craig lives in each of you - always. Rob Lewis

tim crowley

March 4, 2014

craig the laughs we shared were endless and always a source of good energy which i will always treasure...i am better for having been a part in your life...thanks...peace

Shane Izzo

March 4, 2014

Words can't describe how deeply saddened we are over the loss of such an incredible man. He may be gone but he will never be forgotten! Craig will be in our hearts forever.

Tammy Patrick

March 4, 2014

You will forever shine your light on us all! We will miss your smile, but it's forever embedded in my memory. Blessings to you and your loving family.

March 4, 2014

Natasha I just wanted to give you and your family my deepest sympathy and let you know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I always admired the love you and Craig shared. Love, Cathy Lee Neubauer

Chuck Robbins

March 4, 2014

What a great friend and the best boss you could ever ask for. You'll definitely be missed.

Rob & Annie Silverstein

March 4, 2014

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

Rob and Annie Silverstein

March 4, 2014

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Whitney Barkey

March 4, 2014

Prayers to your family during this terribly difficult time! You willbe missed!!

Stacie Womack-Velliquette

March 4, 2014

…What a brilliant light in this world, and an incredible human being. We are all better for having known Craig. He touched many lives with his amazing spirit and contagious smile. Love and prayers to all who were touched by his life. We lift his family up in this time of sorrow… so that they may be assured, he is only a prayer away. God's Blessings, my friend,… I will see you again.

Matt Meeker

March 4, 2014

Craig, I miss you! I also miss your contagious smile and I miss you calling me "Meeker". I had the privilege to call you friend and also had the privilege of working with you and seeing just how BIG your heart was. You did everything a human being should do and MORE! I will work harder in remembrance of you my friend. I love you and will see you agin.

March 4, 2014

We are so blessed to have known such a wonderful man and that smile of his was like no other!!! To know Craig is to know that heaven exists. Much love always, Jenny,Mark and Alexandria Smith

Crystal Chisholm

March 4, 2014

Craig had the fighting spirit that made you think he would live forever. Now, he will live in the memory of so many of us that he touched. I feel honored and blessed to have known Craig Menke.

Max Hazuda

March 4, 2014

One of the greatest men I have ever had the privilege to meet.

Denise Whitney

March 4, 2014

Dear Natasha and family of Craig. I have all of you in my heart and prayers. I will never forget all the many times over the years that Craig and I share breakfast at the Serving Spoon. Truly a great person and will be missed. Heaven will now have a great one.

Mark Brewer

March 4, 2014

Craig was loved by everyone who had the good luck to have known him. All of Sarasota mourns. Mark, Cynthia and Tab

Rose Brasgalla

March 4, 2014

Dear Craig, John and I will never forget those days of meeting our running buddies Jeff and Jan at the Serving Spoon every Friday morning. It was such a tradition! I will always remember your contagious smile, energy and kindness. Years later, we were lucky enough to see you at Southside with our kids. Same beautiful smile! Your memory and precious family will be in our hearts always. Please know that you are loved by more people than you will ever know! With much love and sympathy - John and Rose Brasgalla & The Boys

alice bowman

March 4, 2014

To the lovely family of Craig - you don't know me, but we crossed paths many times over the years at Southside Elementary, at The Serving Spoon and in the neighborhood. I would often see Craig with all of his children at Publix. He was always smiling; always happy and it was abundantly clear how much he enjoyed his children. He never appeared stressed out or harassed. I was in awe of him and his wife watching them joyfully walk their their lovely children to school down Osprey Avenue in the mornings. I am very sorry that you have lost this wonderful husband, father, brother, son, & grandson. He was a model to people he didn't even know.

Sherry Holliday Harris

March 4, 2014

Craig you are forever in my heart. My love, thoughts, and prayers to all of the Menke family. May God bless you and keep you always.

Sherry Holliday Harris

March 4, 2014

Craig you are forever in my heart. My love, thoughts and prayers to all the Menke family. God bless you and keep you.

Jason Sepanski

March 4, 2014

Love you and miss you already Craig.

Patrick McManus

March 4, 2014

You may have left this world that we see with our eyes and touch with our hands, but you are ever-present in the world that we feel with our hearts. I don't know that I have ever met another human being who so positively affected the people in his life. I certainly know you affected me, and I am grateful to have known you for this brief time. For those you have touched, you are not gone, and you never will be. Live on in peace my friend.

David Glosser

March 4, 2014

The Man the Smile the Father and Loyal Friend will be missed. Natasha our heart is with you and your family

Barbara Lloyd

March 4, 2014

Craig touched so very many people with that smile. Our family was so blessed to have had known Craig. Our thoughts and prayers to Natasha and the entire Menke family. Bless.

Stephanie Kempton

March 4, 2014

The Kemptons have had the privilege of sharing in the love and light of the Menke family. Craig was such an inspiration to us - his love for his family and wife, but also his love for his friends and people. He knew how to enjoy life and not take it for granted. Craig taught us that simple lesson through his energy and spirit. He will be sorely missed and forever in our hearts.

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