Craig J. Tarsia Sr.

Craig Tarsia, Sr. was born in Portland, OR on April 24, 1955, to Frank Joseph Tarsia, Sr. and Marlene Marie Tarsia – the 1st of four children. He passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by loved ones on December 1, 2023. Craig graduated from Parkrose High School in 1973.
In 1973, Craig enlisted in the Navy where he was shipped overseas and lived in Australia, where one of his two sons were born. Craig would later return to the States where he became a plumber apprentice following a 30+ year career as a "Production Member" at Toyota Logistics Services, where he later retired.
Craig's biggest claim to fame was his gift as a drummer. He began at 10 years old when he received his first "Pearl" drum set. He became so proficient at playing the drums and joined local bands in Portland and around the world. After a 25-year hiatus of being a drummer, Craig took his drumming back up as if he'd never stopped and was hoping to join a local band again. He enjoyed gardening, camping, fishing, water skiing, golf and spending family time at the coast, crabbing, fishing and clam digging!
In 2005, Craig married Carla Vandegift. They loved music and spent much time at different music venues around Oregon. They had a muscle car and spent weekends winning awards for their 1970 Purple Dodge Challenger. They love taking their motor home to the coast & Central Oregon with their grandkids & dogs! Craig was a dog lover to Daisy Duke, Bo Duke, Cocoa & Buddy Love. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, making people laugh, and his fondness for all animals. Craig is survived by his wife Carla Vandegift, 2 children Craig Tarsia, Jr & Nicolas J. Tarsia, Stepdaughter Shelly Vandegift -Kirchem, Renee Roberts, Sister Mona Beebe (Tarsia) brother Frank J. Tarsia Jr., and is proceeded in death by his sister Terri Edstrom, 5 grandchildren, Elizabeth, Zachery, Devun, Kenzie & Kennedy.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 6, at 3pm at New Song Community Church, 3511 NE MLK Blvd., Portland, Oregon. There will be a reception following in the Community Center. Private Interment was held with military honors on December 14 at Willamette National Cemetery. All who knew Craig are welcome to attend this service. Blue is the color to wear in honor of Craig, but not necessary. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Lung Association.