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Hershel Craig Obituary

Hershel was born and raised in Bloomfield, Iowa in 1931, the son of Haden and Eula Craig and passed away March 1, 2023. He served in the U.S. Army in Korea and upon discharge he attended and graduated from Iowa State Teachers College.      After teaching 6th grade in Waverly, Iowa for 3 years, he and his family moved to West Germany where Hershel taught in the U.S. Army Dependent Schools in Frankfurt and Bad Tölz until 1965.  The family then moved to Tucson where he taught in the Amphitheater School District.  He earned his Masters Degree in Education from the University of Arizona.       After his retirement from teaching in the classroom, he transported special education students in the Catalina School District, biking from home to work and logging over 100,000 miles on the Rillito bike path. Altogether, he spent over 60 years in the field of education.       Hershel was married to LaVonne Spurgeon Craig for 25 years until her death.  He was also predeceased by 4 brothers and 1 sister.       He was blessed with a wonderful marriage for 44 years to Betty Mittendorf Craig.       In addition to Betty, he is survived by his son Curt (Michelle), daughter Cathy (Dave), grandsons Dan Crockett (Stephanie), Matt Crockett (Lindsey), granddaughter Cara Goff (Casey), grandsons Loris and Quinn Craig, and great-grandchildren Connor and Cambri Goff, Wesley and August Crockett, and Zoe Crockett.       He is also survived by sisters Peg Mittendorf, Marilyn Seeman, Margaret Fox, and Marquetta Kinnamon.      In addition to his love of skiing, he wants to be remembered for riding in two Tour de Tucson bicycle events, his enjoyment of being Plastic Santa, and the one who "took care of the stuff."     He requests no flowers but suggests remembrances to Interfaith Community Services, Community Gardens of Tucson, Autism Society of Greater Tucson, Lugo Charities - Bike in a Box, or a charity of choice. At Hershel's request there will be no services. The family will join together in a celebration of joy for the life he lived.
Published by Arizona Daily Star on Mar. 5, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
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Rachel G

May 25, 2023

I truly value the time spent with Hershel, and I will always remember his kindness and patience. I know he led a large life and would tell us stories about his time spent abroad. My sincere condolences to his family.

Rick Garrett

March 7, 2023

I had the distinct pleasure of learning the "By George" method from Mr. Craig back in the day. I have taught that same trick to my kids and Lord willing to my grandkids in a few more years. He just made it all click for me. Thanks Mr. Craig!

Delia Gravina and family

March 6, 2023

Hershel transported my son ,Paul Gravina, for many years. Hershel was one of our angels on earth. He treated Paul with dignity and respect. Hershel was a true friend to our whole family. Our condolences to Betty and the rest of his family.

Tom Ervin and Jodi goalstone

March 6, 2023

Such a fine fellow, a true gentleman, with a swell sense of humor, interested in so many things in this world. We had many good times, and I wish I had known him even better, and longer.

Kathryn Snodgrass

March 5, 2023

Betty and Family

I am very sorry to read Hershek's obituary.
What a lovely man he was. I met him (and Betty) at St Andrew's Presbyterian church some years ago.
I enjoyed seeing you both at functions and esp Betty's singing and acting events
I am grateful to have known him.

Kathryn Snodgrass

Karl May

March 5, 2023

It's been nearly 50 years since I had both Mrs. Hale and Mr. Craig. I remember both fondly. My sympathies to Mrs. Craig and the entire family. May his memory be a blessing.

Carrie (Gann) Becker

March 5, 2023

Mr. Craig was my history teacher at Cross Jr. High in 1979. I wish I had had him when I wasn't in Jr. High...because as a teacher myself, I know that jr. highers are self-absorbed for so many reasons...anyway I would have loved to have known him as a person as the things he lived the rest of his life doing are the things that are important to me now. I remember him as a good teacher, kind. But mostly I remember his green-two toned patten leather "pay-day" shoes. I love that. Bless you, Mr. Craig, and bless your family.

Kim Hockings

March 5, 2023

I had Mr. Craig & Mrs. Craig & loved them both! They were my favorite teachers!! BIG hugs go out to Mrs. Craig & my thoughts are with her & her family!

Michael Sapp

March 5, 2023

A great teacher and sense of humor.

Rebecca Carlton

March 5, 2023

Mr. Craig was a wonderful member of the Catalina Foothills SD community. I always enjoyed seeing him while on "bus duty" at Sunrise Drive School. He loved and cared for all of our students. Heartfelt thoughts for your family.

Jennifer Burk Weaver

March 5, 2023

I had Hershel Craig as my 8th grade teacher, and he was one who indelibly remained with me. He was a wonderful man, both in work and outside of work. He had a great sense of humor that made learning fun.

Christine Alley

March 5, 2023

I cherish the memories of his kindness and the inspiration he has been to me as an educator.

Jan Joseph

March 4, 2023

There will never be another one to equal H. Never.
Jan Joseph

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