Craig Austin Lewis

Craig Austin Lewis was born at home in the early morning hours of August 28th, 1931 surrounded by those who loved him, and departed January 15th, 2009 in just the same way. Craig was born in his family home in Goffstown, New Hampshire, to Ruth and father Frank A Lewis with his Grandmother Wilson serving as midwife. He was affectionately raised by his mother and stepfather, Clifford Page. At age seventeen he joined the Navy and was assigned aboard a repair ship. His detail was appropriate as it blended his two passions: repair work and boats. All who knew him realize that if Craig couldn't fix something it was only because it couldn't be broken. It was his life's passion. Craig worked for Sears for 40 years in the repair business, but even his free time was spent making things work. His garage was always full of cars and in his retirement years he had a fine reputation for his skillfully restored antique automobiles. Craig had been a member of the Schenectady Yacht Club for many years, and held the title of Commodore in 1990. He was generous with his time and his talents, he leaves behind many cherished friends with his passing, and will be dearly missed. Craig is survived by his children, Craig A. Lewis (Linda), Caren Lewis Kilgore (Tom), Cheri Lewis Feldman (Jim). He also leaves behind son-in-law, Bob Tittemore; daughter, Cathi Tittemore preceded him in death. The mother of Craig's children, Joan B Lewis; 13 granchildren; and three great- grandchildren also mourns his passing. Rosemary Baker, Craig's life companion for more than 30 years, and her seven children and 16 grandchildren also mourn his passing. Kevin Hall (Arlene), Teri Flood (Bob), Tina Himmelwright (Bill), Tami Rice (Howard), Lisa Hulin (Tom), Michele Sausville (Tim), Toni Kiser (Matthew). Throughout his life Craig has maintained a friendship with his Uncle Rod Wilson whom he considered as close as a brother, and wife, Evangeline. In his last days Craig was visited and comforted by his brother, Jim Lewis, nephew, Larry Lewis and sister, Jane Robinson, numerous friends and family members. Many thanks for the loving concern shown by Dr. Tai, Beth Ann, and all of the nurses at NYOH, Riverview; also to the A-6th floor nurses at Ellis Hospital especially Laurie, Darlene, Claudia and Marcy; and the women at Hospice including Patty, Amy, Lisa and Barbara. Calling hours will be held at Griswold Funeral Home, 1867 State St., Schenectady on Monday from 5 to 8 p.m. Funeral services will be at Griswold at 10 a.m. Tuesday followed by burial at Saratoga National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Community Hospice of Schenectady, 1411 Union St., Schenectady, NY 12308 or The American Cancer Society, 260 Osborne Rd., Loudonville, NY 12211. To express condolences visit scott-barbieri.com.