Leonard George Craig

Leonard George Craig passed away Jan. 16th peacefully at Heartland in Devola. He was the son of Almer Ralph Craig and Grace Elizabeth (Davis) Craig. Paternal Grandparents were John and Charlotte (Neuberger) Craig, Maternal Grandparents George and Nellie (Martin) Davis. Leonard was born in Washington County on January 18, 1935. He was blessed with a daughter Tacie and son John.

Leonard dearly loved his long time companion, Anna Schultheis, a part of his life for many years, and shared much happiness before her death several years ago. With the passing of his dear companion, Annie, Leonard found it hard to make sense of his life. His niece, Anna Marie Moening, having great empathy for his sadness, provided some stability in his life. She sought the consultation of medical professionals which resulted in Leonard appointing her his Power of Attorney and then later with his declining health, assured his safety and well being by entering him into the long term care of Heartland of Marietta. Her husband Michael was beneficial in helping Leonard adjust to his new life at Heartland by facilitating visits with his friends. Leonard’s days were not complete without his tobacco which Michael made sure was readily available. The family would like to thank the staff of Heartland and Marietta Memorial Hospital for their wonderful care.

Leonard had two brothers, Ralph Almer Craig and Donald Robert Craig and two sisters, Edna Louise Lee and Betty Elizabeth Hoalcraft who preceded him in death, and one surviving sister Grace E. (William) Breneman of Moses Lake, WA. Leonard’s niece Donna Marenchin, graciously provided face time on the phone numerous times so he and his sister in the State of Washington could communicate and stay close until his passing. Leonard is survived by grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, their families and dear friends.

Leonard served in the Army National Guard of Ohio in the 1960’s. Leonard’s lifelong occupation was as a brick mason and block layer. He enjoyed his trade for many years. In 1967, he joined the Bricklayer and Allied Craft Workers Union # 52 until his retirement. After retirement, he worked for the Harmar Tavern under two ownerships. He was a member of Marietta Loyal Order of Moose #1823. Leonard also enjoyed the fellowship of The American Legion, The Eagles Club, The Elks Lodge, and participated in their activities which brought him much joy. Leonard was known as a prankster at times and for his sense of humor and quick wit. Leonard shared great times at The Craig Family reunion, especially playing horseshoes with his cousin Fritz Craig of Jacksonville, OH.

Leonard grew up on the family farm. Even in his retirement he raised chickens which gave him pure enjoyment and he also loved feeding the birds and squirrels while at Heartland. Leonard had fond childhood memories of the one room Grandview School in Warren township of Washington, County. Among his favorite recollections were sleigh rides, snowball fights, baseball games and school plays at Grandview that his teacher Mrs. Audrey Delong presented for the community. Ralph Craig, Leonard’s oldest brother started the fire at Grandview on the cold winter mornings so the room would be warm when the other children arrived. Leonard helped him when he was a little older. Leonard and Ralph really liked the huge work horses they used to mow hay, plow fields and also having their picture taken with those gentle, giant lovable animals. Ralph, Leonard and their little brother Donnie loved to work on nearby neighbor’s farms helping with their harvest for many of the Churchtown community. He also had a lot of fun growing up with The Sarver’s, The Brown’s and The Neuberger family. What one of those children didn’t think of getting into the other ones did – quite a childhood indeed.

Leonard really missed the farm; he always seemed to have a friend at just the right time. His dear friend Kevin Whitby provided him a lovely comfortable home in Fleming, OH. Leonard lived there happily and eagerly embraced the opportunity to be in Fleming near his dear friend for several years. Kevin was a loyal and trusted friend to the end; providing a peaceful place of rest for Leonard.

Leonard was especially proud to have the four generation of Craig’s photo with part of his brother Ralph’s family; Ralph’s son, Matthew Craig, twins Jonathan and Joshua Craig and Joshua’s son Tyler Craig along with Leonard out on the farm on State Route 676 as shown in this obituary.

Family and friends are warmly welcomed to visit The McClure, Schafer, and Lankford Funeral Home Thursday 9A.M. – 11A.M. January 24, 2019 prior to his service at 11 A.M. Leonard will be laid to rest at The Tunnel Cemetery. Interment will not be observed at this time.