Colonel Craig Leonard Wallen, USMC, Ret., passed away peacefully on October 8, 2018 at his home in Chesapeake, Virginia. Craig is lovingly remembered by his wife Diane of 34 years; his parents Harry and Salonia Wallen of Wilmington, Delaware; daughters Andria (fiancÃ© Kyle Dorman) of Norfolk and Jennifer of Sandy, Utah; sons Hunter of Chesapeake and Clyde D. Nelson of Chesapeake; and sister Sherry of Wilmington, Delaware. Craig was born in Wilmington, Delaware in 1956. He graduated from Virginia Military Institute (Class of 1978) and upon graduation entered the United States Marine Corps. He went on to earn a Masterâ€™s Degree in Public Administration from Golden Gate University. Col. Wallen served thirty years with distinction as a Marine during Iran Hostage Crisis, Desert Storm and Desert Shield. The discipline and patriotism he learned in the Marines never left him, as friends and family will attest. While still serving in the Reserves, Craig went to work at BAE Systems. He dedicated the next twenty nine years as a Program Manager, always adding a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every effort. Family and friends were Craigâ€™s passion and joy. He also particularly loved coaching and refereeing games for Tidewater Advanced Soccer League. A memorial service celebrating Craigâ€™s life will be held on Friday, October 12, 2018 at 1:00 PM at Great Bridge Presbyterian Church. The Reverend Dr. Anita Herbert will officiate. A private family interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to the VMI Foundation in the memory of Craig Wallen â€™78. VMI Foundation, Neikirk Hall, 304 Letcher Avenue, P.O. Box 932, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, VA 24450. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hdoliver.com H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts., Chesapeake Chapel is handling arrangements.

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Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Oct. 11, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Craig Wallen

Sponsored by the family.

11 Entries

Tom Malm

January 27, 2019

Craig and I last caught up with each other about a decade ago on-line when we recalled the Jr High School summers hanging in his basement and killing time out in the summer sun as 14 year olds should. I introduced him to Civil Air Patrol. He taught me to play some guitar on the sweet Martin he had. My friends throughout my life all have heard Craig's name in connection with this watershed moment of my childhood. While not a tangible part of my life for scores of years, our youthful friendship and experiences we enjoyed continue to live with me daily.

Jeff Hinton

November 28, 2018

We were all shocked by Craig's passing and I just recently came across one of his emails (BAE Systems). He was always so concerned with his fellow employees and dedicated to informing everyone of weather issues that might impact someone. Semper Fi Marine.

Daniel Biegun

October 15, 2018

I learned about Craig's passing at the location where I had most of my interactions with him- at midfield prior to kickoff of a youth soccer game. Years ago, I was fortunate enough to regularly referee with him. Over the past few years, I would always smile when I arrived to coach and noted that he was officiating. Some youth referees are great officials; some are great with the kids. Craig was the best at both! I will miss those quick, friendly conversations before a match. Mostly, I will miss hearing him address the kids as "gang" and going out of his way to teach the beautiful game to so many youngsters in Chesapeake. My family and my team wish to offer our thoughts and prayers to all of Craig's loved ones.

October 13, 2018

It is with great sadness to see Craig pass away. I was shocked and inspired by his incredible journey he has led. As a Navy Veteran, it was wonderful to read that he was a former Marine with such an incredible military history. For me I remember seeing him at the soccer complex working mostly with the younger aged teams. I would always enjoy short but brief chats. He was especially helpful with helping younger players understand the game, taking an extra minute to teach as a Referee so the players could enjoy that learning moment. He was the consummate professional, warm hearted and a delightful gentlemen always. Truly one of my favorite soccer friends in the area. I would always remark to my players (Girls) we have an excellent referee today, always fair, managed the game well. To the Wallen family, my sincere condolences of your great loss. To Craig, and I know you will hear this, Semper Fi my friend, Semper Fi. Fair Winds and Following Seas, please continue to look down after us all on occasion, you will be missed.

Mike Milliken, LCDR, USN(Ret)
Youth Academy and Travel Soccer Coach.

Connor Franks

October 13, 2018

Mr. Craig was my mentor when I first started ref'ing. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. He was always so nice and great at explaining the rules of soccer. He will be missed.

Ingrid Turner

October 12, 2018

Our hearts go out to all the Wallen family.

Mike and Sherrye Shupp

October 11, 2018

Our deepest sympathy and all our prayers are with the Wallen Family.

Jacques Gaucher

October 11, 2018

Shocked to learn of Craig's passing...Condolences to the whole Wallen family...I know you all must be proud of his many life accomplishments. He left this world much too early.

Belinda Landess

October 11, 2018

So sorry to hear the news of Craig's Passing . I was his hairstylist for many many years and he will Be surely missed. He always talked to me about his family. He was so very proud of his children. Rest in peace my friend. My condolences to his wife and family . Belinda Landess

October 11, 2018

Semper Fi Marine, RIP.

Mike Cashmere

October 11, 2018

My sincerest condolences to the Wallen family and Craig's friends. Our work in Key Management is less brighter without his outgoing and positive energy. His contributions will have a lasting positive impact on all who knew and worked with Craig. He is sorely missed by us all. Semper Fidelis!

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