Roland "Butch" Craig

Roland "Butch" Charles Craig of Westminster, Maryland passed away on August 15, 2025, leaving behind an enduring legacy of love, kindness, and generosity to four generations of his devoted family. Born on November 27, 1930, Butch was the cherished son of the late Harry and Martha Craig of Pine Summit, Pennsylvania. In July 2022, Butch lost his beloved wife Jean Maree. For 72 years, they found their greatest joy in one another, sharing an inseparable bond that has served as a powerful model of marriage, one that continues to inspire their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Throughout his life, Butch was known for his integrity, dependability, and high standards. Raised on a small family farm during the Depression, Butch developed a strong work ethic at an early age. He believed in giving his best effort to every project and continuously sought opportunities to build his knowledge and experience. As a respected member of Steamfitters Local 602, Butch connected his own work success to mentorship, investing his time in teaching young tradesmen during the early stages of their careers. Without question, Butch found his greatest joy in family. To his daughter and three sons, he was a quiet, gentle presence in their lives, a loving father who always prioritized their happiness and wellbeing. With each child's marriage, Butch gained a new son or daughter-never an in-law. They all returned that love to him in full. In his youth, Butch excelled in soccer and baseball, both of which he played at Millville High School. In his senior year, he served as captain of the 1948 baseball team, a position that made an impression on his newest fan. Butch once commented that his performance always seemed to improve whenever a young Jean Maree watched from the sidelines. Butch's passion for baseball only grew over the years. Whether playing a backyard pick-up game or cheering his favorite team at a major league park, Butch lit up the moment he heard the crack of a bat. His lifetime knowledge of the game and players was astonishing, and he could astound others with his memory for statistics, plays, and trades. As he aged, he swapped the ball parks for his TV screen, viewing both home and away games from the comfort of his recliner. During his final three years, Butch met his greatest challenge of all: adjusting to life as a widower. His determination to find new meaning and purpose led him to engage with the community at Carroll Lutheran Village. The residents embraced him wholeheartedly, extending a warm welcome to join them in games of poker, Hearts, UNO, and bingo. He loved his life at CLV and spoke often of his new friends and flourishing social life. He will be deeply missed by these dear friends. Butch leaves behind his four children: Jeffrey (Sharon) Craig of New Windsor, MD; Robin (Janet) Craig of Stevensville, MD; Dino (Patricia) Craig of Carlisle, PA; and Nina Earwicker of Bowie, MD. He was a devoted grandfather to his 11 grandchildren and their spouses, as well as a doting great-grandparent to his 19 great-grandchildren, all of whom cherished him. Amazingly, he continued to attend sporting events, plays, concerts, science fairs, and awards ceremonies into his 90s, supporting his great-grandchildren with his contagious enthusiasm. In recent years, he added three great-great-grandchildren to his extended family. Butch's son-in-law Stephen Earwicker and grandson Thomas Craig preceded him in death. Although absent from this life, they were lovingly remembered. A Memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 11:00 am, at Krug Chapel, Carroll Lutheran Village, 300 Luke Circle, Westminster, MD 21158. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Butch's honor to Bridging Life Dove House, 292 Stoner Avenue, Westminster, MD 21157. Arrangements by Fletcher Funeral & Cremation Services in Westminster.