Craig Bailey Obituary
June 27, 1945 ~ November 22, 2013
Murray, UT-Craig William Bailey lost a valiant fight to stay on earth with his family on November 22, 2013. Craig was born in Pocatello, Idaho on June 27, 1945 to Boyd and Beatrice Bailey. He enjoyed growing up in the Gem State with his sister, Kathleen and his dog, Boots. Craig was a scholar and an athlete who played football and was a champion wrestler. He left Idaho to attend Utah State University where he was freshman class president, then went on to attend Brigham Young University graduating with a degree in English and also attained his MBA from the University of Utah.
Craig leaves behind his loving wife, Colleen whom he was married to for 45 years. They were wed on August 22, 1968, a date Craig found humorous as it was the day Russia invaded Czechoslovakia. He also leaves behind his daughters, Kirsten (Bill) and Megan (Victor), grandsons Lucas and Orion as well as his two cherished dogs, Murphy and Winston. He is also survived by his sister, Kathleen Robinson and his step-brother, Donald Robert Bailey (Sharon).
Craig was a friendly, social and outgoing man who loved to travel with his family but home will always be where his heart is. He was a master of minutia who had a penchant for crossword puzzles, trivia and history. He had a passion for politics and a deep love of sports - particularly University of Utah football, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Yankees. He will be deeply missed.
We are extremely grateful to the loving staff at IHC Medical Center for their genuine care and tireless efforts to make Craig comfortable. Visitation will be held at Mountain View Memorial Estates (3115 E. 7800 S.) on Friday, November 29th at 1 p.m. followed by a graveside service at 2 p.m. and a celebration of Craig's life at the Market Street Grill at 3 p.m. (2985 E. Cottonwood Parkway, Salt Lake City).
"It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived." - General George S. Patton
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Shayla Tu'akoi
December 15, 2013
Craig always had a welcoming smile and a joke to tell. His personality is one that is hard to come by and when you chance it, you have found an instant friend. Craig, I can't wait to see you again friend. Heaven just got a little brighter.
Mary and Rich Forrest
December 5, 2013
Dearest Colleen, Kirsten, Megan: We just today learned of Craig's passing and our hearts are heavy beyond words. We have so many cherished memories from all those many years ago, and will always remember Craig with a smile and a chuckle - that ever-present twinkle in his eyes belied his quick wit and mischievious spirit. You are all in our thoughts and prayers at this sorrowful time.
Lisa Wood
December 5, 2013
I can still hear his smile and his laugh. You never ran into Mr. Bailey in the hallways at Delta w/o him telling you a joke or asking you a trivia question. To his family, you were loved by a very special person.
Lisa Wood. AKA, ELWOOD. He was the only one to call me that and I loved it. I always called him Mr. Bailey because there was something about him in which I could not bring myself to call him by his first name. He had a distinguished persona.
Judy Price
December 3, 2013
R I P Craig! We worked together at Delta Airlines
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Linda DeVore
December 3, 2013
I remember Craig from working with him at Delta Air Lines, reservations. He was such a nice person to work with and I know that he is going to be missed. Love to your family.
Travis Pugmire
December 1, 2013
Colleen, Kirsten and Megan I am so sorry for your loss. Craig was such a pleasant person the few times I had the pleasure of spending time with him I know he will be deeply missed.
Lisa Hermansen
November 30, 2013
Craig, you are one of the best men I have ever known. I feel very fortunate to have shared lots of 'Delta time" with you. You made this world a better place. You will be greatly missed, my sweet friend.
November 29, 2013
I will miss you my friend. Colleen, Kirsten and Megan my deepest sympathies to you.
Charley
Serena Cox
November 29, 2013
Craig was an inspiration to us all, he had a warmth about him that very few people have. Craig was one of my favorite co-workers at Delta and always had something positive to say about others. I am so sorry for your family's loss. Craig will be missed.
Don Stevenson
November 29, 2013
I worked with Craig of several of Bill's political campaigns and really enjoyed working with Craig. I found out today that Bill will have his friend by him which made me sad and glad.
Bonnie Sorensen
November 29, 2013
To Craig's family. Craig must be needed on high because he is such a special soul. His love for friends and family were contagious. I loved working with him. We shared many laughs together. I was happy to see Craig again at Costco. Isn't it a blessing to know he is preparing a space on high for you all to be together again.. Thanks for all the beautiful memories.
Susan Stevenson
November 29, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of Craig's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time. He was my dad's (Bill) best friend. My dad deeply respected Craig and appreciated their friendship. May he rest in peace.
jacqueline itula
November 28, 2013
My heart is filled with sadness to know our chance encounter would be our last. I was wondering why I had not seen you at work (at Delta)to find out you just retired in October. I am so happy to have express my thanks to you for your grand friendship and fatherly support that you gave to me! No matter how bad things were, you always gave me hope. Though, we shared some of same health issue I found such peace in your words and strong faith . To the family thank you sharing your father/husband with us at Delta, that was one thing he spoke about that he had great support from his family and I believe that he lived that every day. I know I will see again and can't wait to hear your newest joke. Love always
November 28, 2013
It was a privilege to work with Craig. He was loved and respected by everyone. A life well lived! I feel fortunate that our paths crossed. Wishing his family love and peace. Lorraine Lakey
Jay Hickman
November 28, 2013
Craig is the best coach I have ever had, his sense of humor is contagious and his philosophy yet simple is profound. Just take one call at a time. Thanks for the memories Craig.
Sicily Lovelady-Williams
November 28, 2013
I met Craig November 28, 1998 when we both walked in to Delta Airlines on our 1st day. Greeted me with a warm smile and made a joke about being new. After years of work he had that smile EVERY DAY! I always looked forward to seeing Craig. We debated about the Red Sox & Yankees, he always told great jokes. No matter what he always made time to make your day better. I'm so thankful for the time & memories I got to share with him. My thoughts & prayers go out to his family. Rest in peace my dear friend.
Joan Worthington
November 27, 2013
Craig, was a Gentle man that shared his love for life. He always had a smile for everyone. Thanks for showing us to be grateful.
Theresa Penttila
November 27, 2013
Sometimes we only see each other for brief moments in time, yet when we realize this will never happen again, the hole left seems so huge. Craig, I miss your happy energy!
Rachel Frampton
November 27, 2013
Craig, I will think of you always when I pass Costco in Murray. Ran into you there one day, of course you were happy as usual. You are a good guy and your presence has left a positive mark on many. Thank you for being my friend. It was a pleasure to know you.
James Murphy
November 27, 2013
I am so saddened to hear of Craig's passing. Craig has always been my hero at Delta. My life is much better for having known you and it was an honor to call you my friend. Rest in peace, Craig.
Carolyn Goran
November 27, 2013
I will miss seeing you around at work.
November 27, 2013
Kirsten and family: We are thinking of you all at this sad time and sending our love and prayers from Boston.
Love, Deb, Saeed and Isaiah.
Connie Hilton
November 27, 2013
Will miss your smile,Craig. Rest in peace my friend.
felecia wright thayer
November 27, 2013
I would like to offer my condolences to Craig's family. The Memories of Craig's Positive and Optimistic Attitude for Life will forever be with me.
Former Delta Airline Colleague
ReNae Chitty
November 27, 2013
Craig, I still can clearly hear your voice, "Hey, real quick, I got a joke for ya!" Like I'd ever have turned down one of your jokes! You truly made me happy every time I saw you. And your innate ability to get your political point across without offending, demeaning or missing an opportunity to present in a manner that you had the last word! I will miss you my friend.
Mary Taylor
November 27, 2013
Craig will be so so so sorely missed at Delta. He was such a bright spot and genuinely wonderful person. My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this difficult time. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Gloria East
November 27, 2013
Dearest Colleen, Kirsten & Megan, we are so saddened to hear of Craig's passing. He was always, always so Great with the Poarch kids! Watching him on Jeopardy was the highlight of the Year, he truly was Brilliant! Our Love & Prayers to You. Gloria East, Lisa, Justin, Jessica & Lara!
November 27, 2013
Craig and I started together at Delta 15yrs ago, We became friends from day. Craig you will be greatly missed, especially at Delta.
Rest in love Craig,
Nora Purcell
Mary Bahr
November 27, 2013
Craig is one of those special people who makes the world a better place just by being in it. I remember him best for his contaigious smile.
November 27, 2013
Craig, words can't express how much I value your friendship. I loved seeing you at Utah football games and even more at Delta. Thank you for being my friend!
Kay Goldberg
Stephanie Denning
November 27, 2013
I worked with Craig at Delta when we were both doing the RSVP position. We had so much fun and I will forever cherish a lot of those memories. He was a true gentleman, so witty and friendly to all. I remember on our work trips to Atlanta he would collect various newspapers laying in the airport or on board plans to have different crossword puzzles to do. I was very sorry to hear of his passing. My thoughts are with his family, he will be missed. Rest peacefully my friend...
Doug McRae
November 27, 2013
Craig Bailey the Man the legend my Idol. Craig you are the best friend one could have. I will miss you friend
Dianna Littlewood
November 27, 2013
He was a very nice man, I enjoyed working with him. He always had the time to stop and say "hi" with a smile on his face. He will be greatly missed. My prayers are with all of you.
November 27, 2013
Dear Colleen, Kirsten, Megan and loved ones. You are in our hearts at this sad time. Craig was a wonderful man and you were so lucky to have him as a husband and father. God Bless. The Caouette Family
Tori White
November 27, 2013
Craig always had a smile on his face and was a joy to work with. We enjoyed his funny stories. He will be missed and I'm sorry for your loss.
Doug McRae
November 27, 2013
You couldn't ask for a better friend I don't know of any enemies. Heaven will be enriched by him. I lost a good friend and will miss him. Doug McRae
Kori Pearce
November 27, 2013
Craig made me laugh, we had a standing joke between us. One time he walked up on me just as I was ending a call with my husband and I was telling him that 'I loved him' and Craig overhearing it said 'I love you too, in fact I love you this much' (arms extended) and after that when I would pass him in the halls of Delta he would say and do the same thing, I'm going to miss him. He was a sweet and thoughtful person to everyone and we'll be missed by so many.
Crystal Kelly
November 27, 2013
So sorry to hear the passing of one of a kind. Craig was such a great co worker always up beat and telling some crazy jokes. You will be missed my friend. Rest in peace
Kori La Bier
November 27, 2013
Everytime I saw him it was like his task to me giggle. He will truly be missed.
Barb Venema
November 27, 2013
Craig, a gentleman, a scholar, a humorist, a coach, a friend. Craig, a truly good man.... who will be missed.... journey on.
Todd Mitchell
November 27, 2013
You will be truly missed Craig! I am so lucky that I got to know you. You are a bright spot in this world, you made many people smile at Delta. I especially love all the jokes you told everyone :-)
Chris Stackhouse
November 26, 2013
Craig, it was a pleasure to know you, and to discuss the the Utes... "With parting breath we'll sing that song: A Utah Man am I"
God Bless!
November 26, 2013
Dear Colleen, Kirsten, Megan, and Families, Craig was such a wonderful man! Please know how much we are thinking about you all at this time. Our prayers are with you. God Bless You All. Love you; Julie, Matthew, and Daniel Pizza
Gina Manuleleua
November 26, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
I will miss you "handsome"...Aloha oe, until we meet again. Thanks for the memories my dear friend...your's truly "beautiful" Tangikimoana
Tangikimoana Atiga
November 26, 2013
Marti Pierce
November 26, 2013
Craig you were without a doubt one of the brightest stars in our office. You always had a smile for everyone and loved telling us jokes. We will miss you more than words can say. My heartfelt condolences to your family.
John Wegienka
November 26, 2013
Thank you Craig for the opportunity to be a friend and a colleague. Sending many thoughts and prayers to your family in this time of need. Rest in peace my friend.
Travis Holmquist
November 26, 2013
Craig was a great man! I'll miss your jokes as we passed in hallways. I'm glad I got to know you. RIP Craig
John Wegienka
November 26, 2013
You are missed more than you can imagine Craig. It was such an honor and pleasure to work with you at Delta. I miss your University of Utah and BYU comments/jokes already. Many thoughts and prayers for you and your family. Miss you tons.
Cynthia Alder
November 26, 2013
I worked with Craig at Delta...never did I see him unhappy. Always had a wonderful smile and hello for everyone! He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his sweet family at this time.
November 26, 2013
My dearest friend Craig..I will truly miss you buddy..thanks for feeding me fruits and snacks everytime I checked in the office...
Lisa Taylor
November 26, 2013
You're truly one in a million! Thank you for always making me laugh and smile. It was a pleasure working with you and getting to know you.
Esther Miller
November 26, 2013
So sorry for your loss. I knew Craig from Delta, he was a great guy. He will be missed.
Jennifer Walbom
November 26, 2013
Thank you for bringing your wonderful love of life and your laugh to our Delta family. You will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Kay Hathaway
November 26, 2013
Very sad to here about your passing. You made Delta really fun and will truly be missed. I am happy I got to know you.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Nahe Foley
November 26, 2013
I was so lucky to have known you Craig. I will miss swapping good books, laughing at your jokes and our friendly baseball rivalry...GO RED SOX! Miss you!
Lisa Simmons
November 26, 2013
I am so very glad I got to know Craig what a light to this world!! My heart goes out to his family....great man alway with a smile on his face!!
Leah Fa'amoe (& the Sister you always asked about - Leina Salanoa)
November 26, 2013
Very sad & heartbreaking to hear of your passing. Will always remember our talks, your sweet personality, your Smile & your favorite question everytime you saw me, "how's your Sister doing?" lol! A Hui Hou my Dear Friend/Co-worker & Aloha Oe until we meet again!!!
Jennifer Lafata
November 26, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. RIP Craig. I'm glad I knew you.
November 26, 2013
I love you dad and I'm going to miss you.
laurie smith
November 26, 2013
thank you for your service at delta airlines, you will always be my best coach ever, your smile and jokes and soul will be missed daily hugs to the family, love laurie
Melanie Skane
November 26, 2013
Kirsten and family, we are so sorry for your loss and happy we got to meet your father. Love is being sent your way.
Perry Sloan
November 26, 2013
Thank you for all the great political debates we had and that neither of us ever won. You were, and always will be, one in a million!
Chris Clark
November 26, 2013
Craig was an old-school gentleman. He loved chiming in with a pun or joke, most likely lifted from an old Boys Life! He was always eager to greet you with a smile that seemed to say, "Today is going to be better." I am grateful to have worked with him and learned from him. Thanks to his family for sharing him with his Delta family!
Susan Kartchner
November 26, 2013
Thank you for the corny jokes and random facts. You helped make Delta fun and will truly be missed. My best to your family. Thank you for sharing him with us.
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3115 Bengal Blvd. (East 7800 South SLC), Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
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