James E. Craig

James E. Craig Jr., 74, of New Philadelphia, died peacefully at Union Hospital on Thursday, April 10, 2008 with his family at his side, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born March 27, 1934 in Canonsburg, PA, he was the son of the late James and Virginia Craig, who preceded him in death. Jim was a 1952 graduate of Chartiers High School where he was an accomplished athlete. He attended Wyoming Seminary Prep School in Kingston, PA. Although he was highly recruited by major college football programs, he instead chose to seek appointment to the United States Naval Academy. He received his commission in 1957 and served honorably as an officer aboard the destroyer USS Miller.

After leaving the Navy, Jim enjoyed a long, varied career in business, primarily with the Westinghouse Corporation and its affiliates, where he was involved with projects ranging from defense to nuclear energy. He was an avid fan of Pittsburgh sports, especially the Steelers, and he spent most of his career in the Pittsburgh area until his retirement, when he moved to New Philadelphia to be closer to his grandchildren.

A loving husband, father and grandfather, he is survived by his loving wife, Shirley. He is also survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Robert and Rebecca Craig and two grandchildren, Sean and Shelby Craig, all of New Philadelphia; sisters Thelma (Bernard) Mitchell of Houston, PA and Loretta (Wayne) Moffatt of Montoursville, PA; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Jim was a man of character, humility and a quiet strength who most enjoyed the pleasures of home and family. He was kind and generous and he never met a stranger. If you knew him, you knew him as a friend. A true gentleman and a gentle man, forever with a smile, he will be sadly missed by all who knew him and loved him.

To honor Jim's wishes, there will be no public calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, April 14, 2008 at 1:00 pm at Sacred Heart Catholic Church at New Philadelphia with Msgr. George Schlegel officiating. Private interment will be at a later time.

The Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

Those wishing to express their sympathy or fond memories of Jim may do so by visiting the online obituaries link on the funeral home's web site at www.tolandherzig.com

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made in Jim's name to Sacred Heart Youth Ministry, 139 3rd St. NE, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.

Toland-Herzig
330-343-6132
www.tolandherzig.com