Craig R. DeCleene

Craig R. DeCleene, 65, passed away on March 7, 2026, in his home surrounded by the love of his family.

Craig was born on December 13, 1960, to Donald and Dori (Anderson) DeCleene. He graduated from Preble High School in 1979. Following high school, he attended NWTC earning an associate's degree in Diesel Mechanics. Craig grew up surrounded by family and carried those values of kindness, hard work, and compassion throughout his life.

Craig met the love of his life, Michelle, the woman he knew he would spend the rest of his life with. They were married on May 9, 1992, at St. Willibrord's Church. Their marriage was built on love, devotion, and family.

A hardworking and determined man, Craig ran a successful business, DeCleene Truck Repair & Refrigeration. Through his dedication, honesty, and strong work ethic, he earned the respect and loyalty of many customers. Craig truly loved his work, valued his customers, and cared deeply for the people who worked alongside him. Upon his retirement in 2015, he left behind a business and reputation built on trust, hard work, and genuine care for others.

Outside of work, Craig enjoyed spending time at the cottage, boating, golfing, bowling, and helping coach or play sports with his children. Time with family was always what mattered most to him.

Craig was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was known for his warm heart, his witty sense of humor, and his joyful spirit. Craig loved to laugh, sing, and dance, often bringing smiles to those around him with his funny and light-hearted nature

Craig faced early-onset Alzheimer's. This disease did not define him. Craig's life was still meaningful and worth living. Even as the illness progressed, he still had his warm smile and his loving touch. The love he shared with his family never disappeared, and those moments will always be treasured.

Craig is survived by his beloved wife, Michelle; he was a proud father to: Nelson (Racheal) DeCleene, Hayden DeCleene (fiancé, Sammy Alger-Feser), Isabella (Matt) Walgurski, Gavin DeCleene, and Gabrielle DeCleene (TJ Shaw). Craig was a loving grandfather to Adalynn and Lydia DeCleene and baby Walgurski, who brought him great joy. He is further survived by a sister, Julie (Dave) Giese; brothers: Mike DeCleene and Mark (Susan) Decleene; mother-in-law, Jane Matelski; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Dennis Matelski, Renee Isenhart, Chris (Lisa) Matelski, Carissa (Jon) Mueller, and Bridget (Jack) Wotruba; and multiple nieces and nephews who he grew bonds with in his own special way.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Dori; father-in-law, Roger Matelski; his paternal grandparents, Harvey and Laura Glime and maternal grandparents, Clifford and Margaret Anderson.

The family would like to thank everyone who helped Craig on his journey, especially Tina Slezewiski, whose big heart and unconditional care meant so much to Craig and to all of us. She brought comfort, kindness and dignity to Craig.

The family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, monetary donations will be used to support local families in need of in-home care for Alzheimer's, with all contributions being paid forward to those in the community.

Online condolences may be offered to the DeCleene family at www.marnochafuneralhome.com or on the Marnocha Funeral Home Facebook page.

"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased." - Hebrews 13:16