Craig A. Johnson

1966 - 2017

As much as it hurts to write of his passing, Craig would say, “Giddy-up!” So here we go, dear friend. Craig Johnson was born in Seattle on October 19, 1966 and moved to Spokane as a child. He graduated from Mead High School in 1984. After high school he earned an Associate of Arts degree in music from Spokane Falls Community College. Music was a huge part of Craig’s world. He played in a few bands, most notably Citizen Swing and later Mayfield 4, which was signed with Sony Records. He was an accomplished guitar player, who continued to find peace and solace while strumming the strings. Listening to him during one of the rare moments he played for friends was a special treat indeed. In 2004, Craig married the one woman who brought him true happiness. Even though a friend accidentally rolled Craig’s fingers up in the car window on the way to the ceremony, marrying Robin was the very happiest day of his life. He stood by her side through sickness and health, revealing to all the depth of his love for her. He also experienced so much joy becoming a father on that day. He was devoted to his daughter, Ashley, from the first moment he met her and she painted his nails. In the years that followed, Craig was the parent she called when she needed advice, someone to talk to, or a fatherly ear. He often referred to her as, “The Kid,” and took intense pride in her accomplishments. Craig was a man who cared deeply for all of his friends and family, going out of his way to show up whenever they needed him. He was the guy a friend could call for help with anything – painting the house, fixing the snowmobile, patching the roof, or any other task. Spending down time with Craig meant crazy laughter, a pull or two on his antique slot machine with house money, lots of ribbing, all while holding a red solo cup or a can of PBR. His humor was dry and wicked and his heart was huge, with a place for all who knew him. It truly is the lucky man who called Craig friend. He was also deeply devoted to his grandparents, Nana J. and Nana & Papa. He spent much of his free time helping out with household projects or just enjoying their company. His grief was strong with the passing of each of them. Spending time with his dad in Montana brought Craig so much happiness. They would ride motorcycles in the mountains, float the river and go ice fishing, take annual weeklong camping trips, and just hang out enjoying each other’s company. One tradition Craig really cherished was spending each Thanksgiving with his dad so they could go elk hunting. He looked forward to that every year. Craig also enjoyed visiting his family’s ranch in Livingston, Montana. His brothers often were by Craig’s side as they wandered off into the wilderness to hike, explore, and fish. Craig relished sharing the story of the time a grizzly bear interrupted their peaceful day fishing at a mountain lake—the brothers argued over who had to carry the fish down the trail and Craig lost. He was fond of spending time at Chico Hot Springs and going to the historic Old Saloon. Craig loved the Priest Lake area and embraced the adventures of his community. He was enthusiastic about shooting, fishing and hiking with friends, and riding snowmobiles. He appreciated the beauty of Priest Lake and loved to go bar hopping in the boat. He enjoyed working at the Moose Knuckle, calling it his “fun job.” He also served on the community’s Search and Rescue team. Craig took great joy in the area’s recent baby boom. At his own request, close friends’ kids often referred to him as “Uncle Big Bad” after a favorite Looney Tunes character, although neither “big” nor “bad” ever fit this beloved uncle. It would be impossible to name all who loved Craig, as so many hearts ache at this loss. He is dearly missed by his wife Robin, his daughter Ashley, his parents Sharon (Kenny) and Ron (Joanie), his brothers Josh (Christianna) and Rylan, along with so many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews, both biological and surrogate. Craig had many friends who truly were brothers to him, including Andy, Cody, Jimmy, Luckey, and countless others. We raise our glasses to you, Pirate, until we meet again. A celebration of life service, aptly named a “Craig-abration” will be held at Trezzi Farm, a Green Bluff winery, on November 4, 2017, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. This is open to all who knew and loved Craig.