Craig Austin Becker

Craig Austin Becker

May 1, 1972 - April 20, 2024

ST. HELENA - Craig Austin Becker, a St. Helena, resident and a Napa Valley vintner, passed away on April 20, 2024, due to complications following surgery.

Craig leaves behind a decades-long legacy in the vineyard and wine industry. More importantly, his most treasured role in life was as a devoted husband and father. Having spent his childhood in Long Beach, CA, some of Craig's fondest experiences were visiting Northern California's mountains with his family, inspiring a love for a close connection to nature. Following his dreams to the North Coast, and driven by his passion for mountain biking, he attended the University of California, Davis where he earned a degree in plant physiology and soil science. While there, in a plant physiology course, he met his future wife, Courtney, who sparked his passion for viticulture and enology.

In 1996, he worked his first harvest at the Robert Mondavi Winery, while continuing his education in the Viticulture and Enology program at UC Davis. Upon graduation, he accepted a position at Spring Mountain Vineyard, where he was promoted to winemaker in less than a year. His entrepreneurial spirit soon led to a successful vineyard development and wine consulting business where, among others, he helped establish Peacock Family Vineyard and Kelleher Family Vineyard. A founding partner of Priest Ranch and Somerston Estate, Craig was a dedicated leader, advocate, and mentor. Through his time overseeing the 1,682-acre property, his knowledge and integrity earned him the respect of peers who trusted and relied on his expertise.

Craig had a determined, vibrant, and enthusiastic outlook on life. From a young age, he aspired to become a pilot, eventually obtaining his license and flying his own small plane. He loved spending time with his family and especially enjoyed skiing, camping, and exploring the great outdoors. Craig was often happiest in the kitchen, making homemade pizza and pasta as well as grilling family dinners. He also enjoyed woodworking, designing, and building features of his own home. Craig will be dearly missed. His influence will live on in the collective memories of everyone lucky enough to have known him.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 24 years, Courtney; and their three daughters: Sydney, Gabriella, and Lauren; as well as his mother, Christine Hilbrant; and his sister, Amy Mills; and five nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth Becker.

A celebration of his life will be held in the gardens of Brix Restaurant in Oakville on May 30, 2024, from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution in Craig's memory to Napa Valley Grape Growers, Napa Valley Land Trust; or Napa County Resource Conservation District.