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Craig Nealis Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Craig Nealis
Craig Moncreiff
October 18, 2006
The Moncreiff family is grief-stricken. My parents had just seen Craig at his father’s service only a few weeks ago. Growing up across the street from Craig, I can say that there weren’t many other kids with his unique mix of confidence, drive and youthful mischievousness; always a first class friend and a fine family. We looked forward to hearing occasional reports about how he was doing and we hope and pray that Alice and the children will find solace in all of the joy that he gave them during their time together. Our most sincere and deepest sympathies to the entire Nealis family.
Bob Ramies
October 11, 2006
Dear Alice, Brian, and Rebecca,
I want to express my deepest sorrow and sympathy for this sudden and tragic loss. I received news today of Craig’s passing. My prayers are for your strength and love together during this time. My thoughts of Craig will remain strong for the rest of my life, he was a very special individual. I first met Craig during my high school years where he stood out among the crowd in so many ways as a friend and individual. His intelligence and integrity was always a compliment to his kindness and consideration for others. When anyone thinks of Craig, they remember the fun of an ageless boy. Craig continued his love for high performance cars, skiing, and all around energy for life. He kept up with his friends over the years, and set the highest example as a husband and father by talking about his love for his wife and children. He was the most proud of his family. He called me a few weeks ago in his excitement for the upcoming Woodside High School reunion and how he was looking forward to catching up with all of us. He will be with us all forever.
Caryn Siebert
October 11, 2006
As the Claims Administrator for the CJPIA GL program, we had the opportunity to interact with Craig periodically. He was always pleasant and concerned for the well being of others involved in claims situations and wanted Rolling Hills to shine. He will be missed by us all at Carl Warren.
Doris Adams
October 10, 2006
I knew Craig when he attended high school with my son, Steven. Craig, Steve, and Joseph were "mischievous" boys and the talk of the neighborhood...their futures in doubt! However, when I spoke with Craig several years ago and he told me what he had accomplished in his life, I was so proud of him; and, mostly, he spoke of his wonderful family. I mourn your loss and extend my deepest sympathy to all of you.
Stephen Mkandawire
October 10, 2006
We were shocked and saddened to learn today about Craig. Majestic Cleaning has provided service to Craig and his family for over 7 years now and in this time have always found him to be an extremely pleasant and gracious person. It is evident that Craig was a very caring and loving family man. Our deepest sympathy goes out to Alice, Brian and Rebecca at this time of your loss. You will be in our prayers and thoughts.
Stephen, Caroline and all the staff at Majestic Cleaning (formerly Diamond Home Cleaning).
Christopher Williams
October 7, 2006
Dear Alice, Brian and Rebecca:
I am so sorry to hear about Craig. I will always remember how much fun we had in the early days of our life.
I remember the first time My Dad, Grandpa and myself took Craig on a Fishing trip. We were in the 3rd or 4th Grade.
We shared alot in common, I just wish I could have seen him at our reunion.
I don't know what to say at this very difficult time for you.
My thoughts are with you. If you would like to talk sometime about all the fun your father had as a young boy please feel free to call me.
I will miss Craig for ever and remember he will always be in your hearts.
Jinnie Williams
October 6, 2006
Grief stricken in Kauai.
Jackie Kelly
October 5, 2006
Dear Alice, Brian, and Rebecca:
I can't tell you how sorry and shocked I am to hear about Craig. I had worked with Craig at the city hall offices in Rolling Hills for 14 years. He was one of the best city managers ever. When he came to us we had gone thru 5 city managers in a very short time. He came here and did not even have a staff to help him. The last city staff left with the last manager. Craig was a little green and had to muddle his way through. He was a little overweight, sported a mustache, and wore glasses. He looked a lot older than his 32 years. But he was always immaculate in his appearance. He started going to the gym, lost the weight and changed his whole look. Lost the mustache, got contacts and really looked great. Alice was pregnant with Brian and he was just beaming all over. That first year was the hardest. I'll always remember his sense of humor, his interest in cars and his kindness towards everyone. I'm sure they will miss him greatly in Rolling Hills.
Sincerely,
Secretary Rolling Hills Community Assoc. Ret.
Sherry Geyer
October 4, 2006
Alice and family: Know that your family is in the thoughts and prayers of many. Hold on to good memories to sustain you through the hard moments. God Bless each one of you. Sherry Geyer
Stephen Aryan
October 4, 2006
Dear Alice, Brian, and Rebecca:
Stephanie and I want to express our deepest sympathy for the loss of your husband and father. I first met Craig in 1992, when he interviewed me for the Administrative Intern position in the City of Rolling Hills. It was my first public sector position and Craig gave me the opportunity to prove myself, although I had no prior experience in this field. Craig soon went from being my boss to being a mentor and more importantly a friend. I worked at the City for over two years and learned so much from Craig. In fact, during all my subsequent government positions, I followed many of the qualities he inspired in me. I can honestly say I would not be where I am today professionally without Craig's guidance and support over the last 14 years. It greatly saddens me to know that I cannot pick up the phone and have our conversations about music, cars, career, and life. To his family, I want you to know that he always talked about how proud he was of you all, his family was the most important part of his life. Craig will always be in my heart and I will honor him by being the boss, mentor, and friend that he was to me. Craig, I am sorry that you are no longer with us, but look forward to meeting again one day my friend. You are and will always be a significant part of my life professionally and personally. You touched my life in a way you yourself may not have even known; I miss you deeply.
Cindy Taylor
October 4, 2006
Dear Alice, Brian, and Rebecca:
Our hearts are filled with love for each of you during this difficult time. You have been wonderful friends and neighbors for many years. Craig will always be remembered as a man who loved and cared for his family deeply. We will honor his kindness to our family by continuing to love and care for each of you.
With love and prayers,
Cindy, Mark, Mindy, and Tim Taylor
Laura Allen
October 4, 2006
Anything I say cannot express the deep sadness and sympathy I have in hearing about Craig's death. I remember Alice telling me how Craig loved to do the Christmas shopping for Brian and Rebecca. Craig would have it all done way before Christmas. He loved buying things for the kids. I also remember hearing how Craig cooked. I was always impressed by the fact that he loved doing it. Craig will be missed more than he will ever know. He had accomplished so much in his 48 years. The family should be proud. My heart goes out to Rebecca and Brian. Your father spent a lot of time with the two of you. Keep those memories alive. He love both of you deeply and more than you will ever know. Alice, I know that Craig could make you laugh more than anyone. I hope you keep that memory close to your heart. Alice, please remember that there are so many people that care about you and the kids. We are here for you now and forever. Please always remember that. Peace to you and peace to the family. Love Laura Allen
This one's for you Craig:"High Five"
You'll know what that means. May you have peace now.
Katie Pitcher Wilson
October 4, 2006
Alice, Brian and Rebecca: I am so sorry for your loss. I met Craig in 1987 when he sat on the interview panel for my first job out of college. He recommended me for hire and I was thrilled to get my first "City Job" (Rosemead). We became friends that day and remained friends ever since. A few years later, I went to work for the City of Bellflower and Craig and I worked closely together on many projects. I have had Craig's name on my list of professional references for the past 15 years. I always knew I could count on Craig.
He was one of the funniest people I ever met and I was so impressed with his ability to imitate the various City Councilmembers we knew -- I don't think they would have even been offended because he made their idiosynchracies seem charming.
I enjoyed being around Craig because he would always make me laugh. I remember dancing with him at his Bellflower going away Happy Hour at the Hop in Lakewood to the song "Secret Agent Man". It was one of his all-time favorites and I had requested the DJ play it for him.
He once told me that when he taught Public Administration classes he always showed the movie "Jaws" for its illustration of politics and City Management. "Jaws" had always been one of my favorite movies and when he pointed that out it immediately became my #1 favorite. Following his lead, I have shown it in every Public Administration class I have taught since then.
Brian, I remember when you were born and how proud and happy he was. He was on top of the world. Rebecca, a year or so ago I was expressing to Craig my concern about my daughter, who is 12 and in seventh grade, attending sixth grade at a middle school with 7th and 8th graders instead of an elementary school. He told me that you had gone to a middle school and did wonderfully. He reassured me that Rachel would be fine, but added, "Of course, I am sure my daughter is much smarter than yours." While I know that was meant to tease me, I also know that in his heart he truly believed it. He was very proud of his children and it showed on his face and you could hear it in his voice.
I will miss Craig and I am sad that he has left us so soon. I hope these memories I shared bring a smile to your faces.
With Much Sympathy,
Katie (Pitcher) Wilson
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