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BORN

1986

DIED

2016

Craig Strickland Obituary

Two weekends ago, Backroad Anthem lead singer Craig Strickland and friend Chase Morland disappeared while on a hunting trip on Kaw Lake in Oklahoma. Strickland was found dead Monday, his wife, Helen, confirmed on Twitter, according to People and other sources. He was 29.

"#CraigStrickland was found today. He is safe with his Father in Heaven. Thank you Lord for leading us to him today. I will praise you, Amen," Helen Strickland tweeted.

"The Oklahoma Highway Patrol Marine Enforcement Division made recovery of the body of Craig M. Strickland this morning Jan. 4, 2016," a spokesperson confirmed to People in a statement.

"Strickland and his friend, Chase R. Morland, were both reported missing on Sunday, Dec. 27, 2015, while on a duck hunt at Kaw Lake in Kay County, Oklahoma. Strickland's body was located within the original search area known as Bear Creek Cove. The Strickland family has been notified of the recovery."

Prior to leaving for the trip, Morland posted a tweet, which has become ominous in light of the tragic death of the two friends.

"In case we don't come back, @BackroadCRAIG and I are going right through Winter Storm Goliath to kill ducks in Oklahoma. #IntoTheStorm"

Strickland's family and friends were clinging to hope that he might be found alive since his beloved black Labrador retriever, Sam, who was also on the hunting trip, was found safe and sound beside Morland.
Published by The Royal Gazette on Jan. 4, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Craig Strickland

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88 Entries

August 30, 2016

I'm sorry to hear of the loss of your loved one. May our Heavenly Father provide strength and comfort to your family during this time of grief. "For he is near to those broken at heart ". Ps 34:17,18.

margaret trudeau

January 4, 2016

Rest in peace. May the Lord be with your family in this time of sorrow.

Sam Cook

January 5, 2016

Have followed the news of Craig since first seeing it on the news. Just know there are no spoken words can take away the grief and sorrow of losing a loved one, but knowing people were praying for him and Helen is one of the greatest comforts and just know our whole crew prayed for you guys. On an oil rig in West Africa and just want to send our deepest sympathy for the Strickland family and friends. Bless you all.

sherry ostergard

February 14, 2016

So sorry for your loss God bless you Lord be with you

February 2, 2016

I AM SO SAD THAT CHASE AND CRAIG PASSED AWAY, AND I DIDN'T EVEN KNOW THEM. BUT THE WORLD HAS WATCHED THIS STORY UNFOLD AND AS TRAGIC AS IT SEEMS, GOD HAS BEEN SO GLORIFIED. ONLY IN ETERNITY WILL THE COMPLETE STORY BE KNOWN. WHAT A GREAT DAY THAT WILL BE! MAY GOD BE CLOSE TO YOU HELEN, AND THE FAMILY FRIENDS AND BANDMEMBERS OF BOTH OF THESE ADORABLE YOUNG MEN. SINCERELY, SUMMER G., LIVINGSTON MT

Virginia Swartz

January 22, 2016

I just wanted to say our heart breaks for your loss. No words can express any words for your sorrow. So I will write our Deepest Sympathies to you and yours. May your broken heart mend to its fullest soon.

CASSANDRA

January 15, 2016

TO THE FRIENDS AND FAMILIES OF CRAIG AND CHASE,"BLESSED IN THE SIGHT OF THE LORD IS THE DEATH OF HIS SAINTS" THESE TWO MEN HAVE NOT PASSED FROM LIFE TO DEATH BUT FROM DEATH TO LIFE. I DIDN'T KNOW THEM BUT I HAVE BEEN DEEPLY TOUCHED BY THEIR STORY. THEY DID NOT DIE IN VAIN. I CAN'T WAIT TO MEET THEM IN HEAVEN. GOD BLESS YOU.

M.W. Gregory

January 13, 2016

Dear Strickland Family, I pray the Lord lifts your hearts in this time of grief, anxiety, and sadness over your loss of your beloved Craig. His beautiful voice will sing among Heaven's Choir for all eternity. Craig will soar with all of Heaven's Angels and his spirit will always remain with you in guidance and love. True Love Never Dies. Craig waits for you one day.

~ Prayer For The Holy Souls ~

(Our Lord dictated the following prayer to St. Gertrude to release 1,000 souls from Purgatory each time it is recited) . . . .

''Eternal Father, I offer Thee the Most Precious Blood of Thy Divine Son, Jesus Christ Our Lord, in union with Masses said throughout the world today, for all of the holy souls in Purgatory, for sinners everywhere, for sinners in the churches, those on my own home, and within my family.

Dear Jesus, assist me in my last agony. Dear Jesus, I give you my heart and soul. Dear Jesus, I breathe forth my spirit to you. Amen.''

Gretchen Stevens

January 13, 2016

Don't even know how to express how I feel, Craig was a gift to so many of us, he has touched so many lives and is a living testimony. Thank you God for the gift of Craig and comfort his family at this extremely difficult time.
And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee, fear not, neither be dismayed. "Deuteronomy 31:8"

Connie Jones

January 13, 2016

Sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayer

Marilyn Davis

January 12, 2016

God be with family and friends

Angie

January 12, 2016

Your family is in my prayers! This is so tragic, but God has definitely used Craig & your strength for His glory!

Rickie cox and family

January 12, 2016

May peace be with your family and friends. May you Rest in peace

Gary Cooper

January 12, 2016

I would like to give my deepest sympathy to all loved ones of Craig. I've really learned a lot about him, over all of this, & GOD BLESS each & everyone of the family, & friends, that loved him enough to teach & encourage him to be the man that he was here on earth, & the man he is, in Heaven! GOD calls on his strongest angels when it's time. I Pray your hearts heal over time, & that GOD be with each & everyone.

January 12, 2016

Sorry for your loss

Donna Sloan Harmon

January 12, 2016

Helen, Family , band and sweet faithful Sam.... My deepest sympathy with the loss of your husband, son, grandson best friend. Heaven has gained another Angel, may God comfort each and everyone of Craig's family, friends and fans and his furbaby Sam! May your faith keep you strong and close to The Lord during and after. Craig's life is over here on earth but just began in Heaven! May God watch over you all in the long days ahead! May he rest in Jesus arms until we are all called home. God bless you all!

Raven Jones

January 12, 2016

Joanne, Randy, and Katie- I am so sorry for your loss! Craig was such a wonderful person! I have so many great memories with him!! Will continue to pray for the family! Love you guys!

Prayers from the Adirondack Mtns.

Kathleena

January 12, 2016

To Craig's parents and siblings (Sam too)
We are praying for you and hope you find peace. You will all see and hold Craig again. I do believe we are on a journey and Craig felt a need to run ahead of you on the path.
May God bless you all,
Kathleena and family
Adirondack Mountains
Upstate New York

Amy Price

January 11, 2016

May God be with you and your family in your time of sorrow. Craig was such a beautiful kind man and I can honestly say he blessed all he came in contact. WE love you Craig and are so thankful to have known you and know in our hearts Heaven gained a wonderful Angel. God bless

January 11, 2016

Helen and family.God gained another angel. We can ask ourselves why but as one who has gone through many tragedies, it was his time.As a Christian and strong believer we know that one day we will all be together and praise his HOLY NAME!!!! May the Lord give you tremendous comfort and strength during this difficult time.

A D

January 11, 2016

Dear Mrs Strickland: I'm sorry to hear such a tragic unexpected event. But one thing I want you to remember & have full confidence in is knowing this tragic event is only temporary (Ecc 9:11) Just like waking from a long sleep, likewise Craig is just sleeping waiting to be awaken.

Crystal Sutphin

January 11, 2016

I am so sorry. My heart and prayers go out to you.
I pray you find comfort knowing Craig is in heaven. God Bless you and keep you safe until you meet again
You made such a beautiful couple.

Patricia Neely

January 10, 2016

Helen and family,
My heart goes out to each and everyone of you. I did not know Craig personally but did know Randy as I lived in Alma. Craigs passing has indeed changed my life in ways,I can never explain. Listening to stories of his,life, his belief and his Christian ethics has shown someone even at my age that life can change for us. I just know in my heart he has a special crown of his own in heaven just as you had of your own, and I just know that he might not be singing here on earth again but he will lead the choir in heaven!!! Oh what a glorious day that will be!

Rose Martinez

January 9, 2016

My condolences to his wife and family. I know you will be singing and rocking in Heaven.

January 9, 2016

Helen, sorry for your loss, prayers be with you. Sam survived for a reason, I believe God wanted you to have Sam around, he is a part of Craig. Lean on Sam, stay strong and I will be praying for you.

Joan Walsh

January 8, 2016

Condolences to the whole family . God bless!

Mando A

January 8, 2016

Im sorry for your loss. My prayers to your family.

annie english

January 7, 2016

Heaven has received another Angel.

heather powell

January 7, 2016

Al my thoughts and prayers go to the Strickland family, friends and to Backyard Anthem. Craig was such a sweetheart when I met him at a show. He is safe in God's arms in heaven now and I am thankful for his music and for getting the chance to meet this kind and talented man. RIP Craig. You will be dearly missed.

Jerry Moseley

January 7, 2016

I had never heard of Backroad Anthem or Craig Strickland prior to this tragic event. However, this experience has brought about a truly overwhelming awakening into how true faith in our Lord works. Helen and family, at the very worst times in their lives displayed love, trust, and extreme faith in the Lord and Savior and I admire them so. I now feel like I knew Craig Strickland and his life has touched mine so very deeply. Craig one day I hope to meet you when this life is over. SAM thank you for your love and the caring you gave to Craig and Chase.

James Schad

January 7, 2016

Craig Strickland was an amazing, wonderful person. His personality was so good it made him a one of a kind person. He had a talent in the music field. It was truly amazing when he worked with his band. I can not imagine why God can take one so young. but I know. That to every question. There is an answer. Heaven got a new angel in its Choir. And he will be deeply missed. Rest in peace bud.

January 7, 2016

To Helen, Joanne & Randy,

Lean on your Savior for no eye has seen nor ear has heard that which the LORD has planned for you. I am sorry GOD allowed his angel to be taken so young. We cannot know his plan, but if we believe we must have faith that the reason is beyond our ability to understand..but is perfect in the sight of the LORD. Trust him.

Amber McPherson

January 7, 2016

You have touched so many live's in your short one. I look forward to the day we meet in heaven. I will never forget you buddy! Your light will shine bright in my heart forever

Pat

January 7, 2016

Singing in that heavenly choir.

Carol McBride

January 6, 2016

R.I.P. Craig and Chase you both will be greatly missed. Prayer's go out to both of your families.

Jennifer Kaminski

January 6, 2016

My prayers and love to Helen, Sweet Sam, Craig's family, friends and band family. God Bless!

Stina Starry-eyed

January 6, 2016

I never knew you, and I'm not familiar with your work, but I made the Wikipedia page for you, because you deserve to be remembered.

Kathleen

January 6, 2016

Prayers to his family Glad the loyal dog was found safe .

January 6, 2016

Helen and family. I am so sorry for your loss. I was a new listener to the band and they were fantastic and have an amazing future. Craig was an unbelievable singer and personality and will be sorely missed. A person like him only comes around once in a lifetime and God certainly broke the mold when he made this amazing man. We don't understand these things but Helen as you said there is no doubt he is in our Heavenly Father's hands. My prayers are with you, Craig's family, and the Moreland family. I pray the peace of God surround you and keep you forever more. Peace to you all.

Chuck Foster

michele gombash

January 6, 2016

i help pray and pray to find you both.I'm a new listener to your music.you had a great voice,but god wanted to hear it more.you will truely be missed here on earth.keeping your wife and family and band members in my thoughts and prayers and found peace and Chase family also.my you both R.I.P.

Mary Ann Brothers

January 6, 2016

RIP CRAIG STRICKLAND, I'M SO GLAD THAT GOD LED THEM TO YOU, MY HEART HAS HURT FOR YOU AND YOUR BEAUTIFUL WIFE AND YOUR OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS AND FRIENDS AND NOW I CAN TO REST KNOWING YOUR IN HEAVEN ,I CAN'T IMAGINE THE PAIN THAT YOUR LOVED ONES HAVE GONE THROUGH. I ADMIRE YOUR FAMILY'S BELIEVE IN GOD HE WILL NEVER LEAVE US OUR FORSAKE US EVEN IN OUR WORST DAYS OF OUR LIVES, MAY GOD BLESS YOU HELLEN AND FAMILY.

Bonnie Elliott

January 6, 2016

Rest in peace craig and chase u will be miss

January 6, 2016

Such a tragic loss. My deepest sympathy. May you be comforted and strengthened by God, who promises life again on paradise earth (Matthew 11 : 25 ).

January 6, 2016

Prayers for peace for the family, band and friends. I have been praying for him to be found. I am so sorry for your loss. xoxo

Cindy Moore ( Bells, Texas)

January 6, 2016

No doubt these news are heartbreaking not only to those who admired The band's songs and Craig's voice, but absolutely to their families and friends. My sincere condolences for your loss. I can only understand what you are going through, but I assure you that our Heavenly Father is aware of your circumstances and He grants the strength and comfort to those who are heartbroken... May He become your Source of encouragement to help you endure your grief and to strengthen you in all your journey of moving forward.

Shirley Bridges

January 6, 2016

Love and prayers to all your families Craig Strickland. You are missed.

January 6, 2016

Craig you will always be remembered by this Step Granmommy. I remember the talks we had and your funny scarry moments. BECAUSE JESUS LIVES WE CAN FACE ALL OUR MOMENTS AND TOMORROWS. Have you found Papa Thurston Bridges he is there with you now. Helen I hurt with you. Randy I hurt with you. Katie I hurt with you, Jordan Jones, Jenna Jones and Julie Jones Strickland. Love and prayers, Shirley Bridges, Granmommy Isaiah 40:31

Rina McManus

January 6, 2016

No words for such deep sorrow.
Prayers of strength & peace go out to you.

Diana

January 5, 2016

I am sorry for your loss. May you find peace and comfort in this time of sorrow ~

DIANA DIXON

January 5, 2016

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Jim Williams

January 5, 2016

.................PEACE

Rick Branham

January 5, 2016

My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Craig and Chase. Two young men gone to soon

January 5, 2016

God Bless your family with his love, mercy & grace, peace to all!!

January 5, 2016

Still a young man. A terrible loss. May the God of comfort be with the family.

January 5, 2016

Sad this story. Condolences to the Strickland and Morland families.

LindaAnn LICARI

January 5, 2016

Rest in Peace my thought and prayers to your family.God Bless.

Rosie Wandell

January 5, 2016

May you RIP with your buddy Chase!!! Condolensences to the Strickland and Morland family.

Craig and Sam

Rosie Wandell

January 5, 2016

Craig--- You touched so many lives in your lifetime here on earth!!! God needed you and now you have a much bigger job in heaven!!! Please look down every once a while to let your loved ones know everything is ok---- ESP. Your beloved Helen and Sam... He helped find you!!!! You will NEVER be forgotten only remembered for being the silly guy who LOVED his lady!!!!!

Shelia Clarke

January 5, 2016

He will forever be in our hearts and family.he is siNing to Jesus now
God need another angel in heaven .thoughts and prayers are with everyone

Ricky Rojas

January 5, 2016

Craig we will miss you and we will have you in our hearts. To Strickland family my condolences for you all and my heart is with you all. We love you craig.

Scott J. Wood

January 5, 2016

A man who dies doing what he loves has truly lived a complete life. Never met the man, but followed the story online. Craig and Helen Strickland photos online embraced the meaning of happiness. In time Helen Strickland, family and friends will once again laugh in fond memory of Craig Strickland. Laughter is the best medicine for heavy hearts and hopefully this story has many happy endings for all of those close to Sam's buddy.

Susan C

January 5, 2016

Sad.

James Fulton

January 5, 2016

So very sorry to hear of Craig's passing! I was not lucky enough to know him! May he Rest In Peace!

D S

January 5, 2016

May God keep his loving arns around the family and friends of these two young men.

January 5, 2016

Condolences to the family. May God send comfort.

AM

January 5, 2016

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

M R

January 5, 2016

I Hurd the sad news ;-(((( ! What can I say but too his Wife Helen His Family Members & Friends even too his Pal Sam great job Sam ;-(((((( ;-((((( all my Prayers for ever.

joseph mckenna

January 5, 2016

my prayers are with you all god bless

J. Alexander

January 5, 2016

Gone but not lost,
Our loved ones are sleeping,
Resting and awaiting the day
The day they wake up
And step out of the darkness
The day they will hear Gods voice say:
All things are made new
All bad things forgotten
Rejoice and enjoy paradise
life everlasting in peace and happiness
Soon it will be realized

So sorry for your loss.

J

January 5, 2016

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Deborah Cline

January 5, 2016

I have been thinking of Craig, his family, Backroad Anthem band, and certainly the people on the search and rescue teams. I was certainly hoping and praying for a different ending. Although I do not know anyone involved, this has kept me awake at night. I have followed the news constantly. I hope you can continue to follow Christ and have future accomplishments that would make Craig proud. Also, I am so very sorry for the Moreland family.

Robin

January 5, 2016

I'm so sorry for your loss. Special thanks to the recovery team who gave it their all until they found recovery. May you find comfort in knowing others care about you.

Donna Miller

January 5, 2016

Prayers go out for all of you and may god be with both families at this sad time.

Connie Force

January 4, 2016

To the Strickland family sorry for the loss of Craig, he will be missed by families and friends and co-workers. HE is in Heaven with our LORD. HE isn't in any pain. May God bless you always. Prayers are with you.

Gabriel Taton

January 4, 2016

May you both be in peace now.

Scott Chamberland

January 4, 2016

Please accept my Deepest Sympathies

January 4, 2016

GOD BLESS FAMILIES & FRIENDS OF CRAIG.
HOLD ON TO THE MEMORIES THAT YOU ALL SHARED.
CRAIG IS SINGING IN THAT HEAVENLY CHOIR.
PRAISE GOD, YOU ALL HAVE A SPECIAL ANGEL WATCHING OVER YOU.
ONE DAY AT A TIME SWEET JESUS.

Beth Setchfield

January 4, 2016

Our deepest sympathy to the Strickland and Morland families. May they both Rest in Peace. Thank you to all of the member of the search team for your efforts in their recovery.

January 4, 2016

SMy condolences to The Strickland Family. Please find comfort in the memories you have of Craig and may it help the ease the pain you are feeling.

Michael Bozym

January 4, 2016

Sorry for your loss, I will Pray for you.

The Carey Family

January 4, 2016

From Upstate N.Y. Our thoughts & prayers are with you all, during this most difficult time. Deepest sympathy to you all. May you find comfort in knowing others care & share your loss. Another precious soul among the heavens, another singer among the Angels. Graig, certainly had earned his Angel wings, sad but much to soon. God bless you all.

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