Craig Dennis Pedersen

Craig Dennis Pedersen passed away unexpectedly on December 23, 2024 in Austin, Texas.

Craig was born in 1952 to Irene and Arthur Pedersen. He was raised in Hackensack, New Jersey and graduated from Rutgers University in 1974.

His early interests in political life and politics led him to a Masters in Public Affairs from the LBJ School of Public Affairs in Austin where he was later recognized as a distinguished alumnus. He served state government in various positions including as an aide to James Nugent at the Texas Railroad Commission, Bob Bullock at the Texas Comptroller's Office and William P. Hobby in the Lieutenant Governor's Office. He then proudly served for many years as the Executive Director of the Texas Water Development Board before moving to the private sector to work for URS and then Enviro Water Minerals.

Late in his career Craig taught classes and led programs at the LBJ School of Public Affairs and wrote and taught especially on the importance of character in public and nonprofit leadership.

Craig loved the mountains and deserts of the West, especially Big Bend National Park which he once hiked across the entirety of alone. He also loved family, history, travel, and meeting new people.

Craig was committed to public service for the sake of the common good. He loved justice, hated injustice, and valued good character above all else.

Craig is survived by his children, Daniel and Avery, his brother Arthur Pedersen Jr., and his grandson, Marion.

Services will be held at Hyde Park Presbyterian Church on Friday, January 10th, at 1:00pm, with a reception to follow.

The family is grateful to Mary Thompson and Paul Keeper, to Shelly and Tom and Cindy from Overture Mueller, and to all his friends and colleagues who have been so generous in their support.

In lieu of flowers, please offer a donation to Austin Sunshine Camps. Fond memories or expressions of sympathy may be shared on his tribute page at AustinNaturalFunerals.com