Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Craig Wilson Obituary
Craig Steven Wilson, age 76, lost his recent, valiant battle with cancer on January 16, 2025, at the VA Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN.
Craig was born on March 25, 1948 in Minneapolis, Minnesota to parents Phillip Wilson and Ruby (Horgen) Wilson. Craig graduated from St. Louis Park High School in 1966. He joined the U.S. Army in 1967 and served in Vietnam for one and a half years and received many medals of honor.
Craig is survived by his wife of 39 years, Judy Wilson; his daughter, Emily (Chris) Canney; his son, Ryan Wilson; grandchildren, Benjamin Canney and Grace Canney; brothers, Dale (Kathryn) Wilson and Dean (Sue) Wilson; and many loving relatives and friends.
Craig was an avid hunter and fisherman for most of his life. He loved the outdoors, his family, and an occasional Budweiser.
Though Craig has left this world, his spirit of kindness will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew him.
A Celebration of Life will be held 11:00 - 12:00 PM Friday, January 31, 2025 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM. A light luncheon will be served following the service. Burial with full military honors will be held 1:00 PM Monday, February 3, 2025 at Preston State Veterans Cemetery, Preston, MN.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
5421 Royal Place NW 5482 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN 55901
People and places connected with Craig
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Craig Wilson
Tell your own story about Craig
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
How you can show support
Make a Donation
in Craig Wilson's name
How to support Craig's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Craig Wilson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
