Celebrating the life of
Donald Gordon Craig
September 03, 1935 - January 01, 2010
Donald Gordon Craig
SAVANNAH - Donald Gordon Craig, 74, died on Friday, January 1, 2010. He was cared for at the Spanish Oaks Retreat and Hospice in Savannah since November 2, 2009. Don was born on September3, 1935 in Rockford, IL, to the late Rowena Williams Malone and the late Maj. Donald Francis Craig, USAMC.
Don attended the Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Worcester, MA with a full scholarship, graduating in 1957 with a BS degree in Mechanical Engineering, a diving trophy, and a letter in Lacrosse. During his senior year, Don was the Battalion Commander of the ROTC, was recognized as a Distinguished Military Student, and was awarded a Regular Army Commission.
He flew fixed wing aircraft and helicopters for the Army Signal Corps, spent 16 months in Korea during the Bay of Pigs situation, and resigned with the rank of Captain after serving almost eight years in the military. He then joined the National Guard as a pilot in Hartford, CT at Bradley Field.
Don worked for Hamilton Standard in CT as a design engineer for several years, living in Okinawa with his family, while serving as a technical representative for the Navy for a year of that time
In 1966, Don was accepted by American Airlines as a First Officer on the 727. He enjoyed flying for almost 30 years with the Great American Airlines Company. He flew all types of planes, finally flying the MD11 on his last trip from Heathrow, London, England to Kennedy International Airport.
Don lived in New Canaan, CT for about 20 years, and then moved to Charles Cove Condos in East Norwalk, CT. He enjoyed playing golf at the Shore haven Club, and was elected President of the club. He was President of his beloved W. P. I. Alumni Association, and also served for four years as the membership chairman for the Grey Eagles, a senior and retired pilots' association. In addition, he also found time to build several nifty, passive solar energy houses in Vista, NY and New Canaan, CT, while acting as a certified tax preparer for over 125 clients each year.
Don is survived by his wife of fifty one years, Nancy Andrews Craig of the Landings, Savannah, GA and Falmouth Heights, Cape Cod, MA; brother Douglas W. Craig of Harwinton, CT; half-sister, Deborah Craig of Valparaiso, FL; son David Andrews Craig in Florida; son Todd Alan Craig of Wallingford, CT. Don was preceded in death by his sister Donna Rae Amoroso of Torrington, CT and a son, Matthew Andrews Craig, who died at age 24 in 1992 and is buried in the Susitna River in Talkeetna, Alaska.
The family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. until 4:30 p.m., Tuesday, January 5, 2010 at Fox and Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel. A Vigil Service will be held at 4:30 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 6, 2010 at St. James Catholic Church. Burial will follow at a later date on Cape Cod.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to the Matthew Andrews Craig Scholarship, c/o W. P. I., Office of Development Relations and Alumni Association, 100 Institute Rd., Worcester, MA, 01609
Please sign our on-line guest book at www.foxandweeks.com.
Fox and Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel, Savannah, Georgia
Dear Donald, I will miss you and always cherish the time I was able to spend with you and Nancy. With deepest sympathy, Lorna Ball
- Lorna Ball, St Catharines, ON
Don was the first captain I flew with on the line as a 727 flight engineer at American Airlines. On November 2, 1986, we flew from LGA to ORD. We subsequently flew the DC-10 together, including a ferry flight from LGA to JFK when Don's son Mat came along for the ride. I was also one of Don's early tax clients. He was one of the good guys that I have never forgotten. Don, may you always have tailwinds and following seas. God bless you.
- Capt. Craig Gordon, Pompano Beach, FL
Nancy, I'm so grateful for that phone call before the holidays. You both are such special people, and I will never forget the memories of watching the Craig boys growing up in New Canaan. God bless you, and may Don Rest in Peace.
- Richard Nota, Murrells Inlet, SC
Jack and Andree Connors extend our deepest condolences to Nancy and Sons on the recent loss of Donald Craig.
- Jack and Andree Connors, Shrewsbury, MA
Nancy, Tom and I want to send to thoughts and prayers to you. We know you are going through a really difficult time now, being just one year today since our son, Nick, died, we definitely remember how hard things are the short days after. We love you and hope to see you sometime in the near future.
- Tom and Laura Hoch, Aurora, CO
Nancy: I was so sad to hear about Don. I have so many wonderful memories of both of you. It was always such a delight for me to babysit the boys and then my first trip to the Cape with you is still in my memory. Oh, you all made so much fun of me because of the sunburn! You and Don shared so many meals with the Cook family in New Canaan. And you both were at all of our important events- like ALL of our weddings. You have both been my 2nd Mom and Dad. You will always be in my prayers. So much love, Neena
- Neena McMahan, Goose Creek, SC
Dear Nancy and Family, Surprised and saddened to read of Don's passing. At this time of loss there are no words to soften the pain. Know that you are all being thought about with special love; the love and caring of family and friends that surrounds you will give you strength and hope for tomorrow. Don was a great guy and will be missed by many. Sincere condolences, Mary DeKlyn Still at Charles Cove Condominium & Shorehaven Golf Club Member
- Mary F. DeKlyn, East Norwalk, CT
Nancy, please accept my condolences. I had the opportunity to work for Don- washing windows somewhere about 1970 or so . Our first job was a house out on the L.I. Sound. I must have scraped an inch of salt off the windows just to get to the glass. I'll never forget that day! A great memory about working hard and doing it right. A lesson that Don reinforced for me. The Craig's were always at the major Cook events- it has been like I have another Aunt and Uncle! I know that's how we all feel. We will miss his laughter and his big smile. Love, Tedd
- Tedd Cook, Southlake, TX
Nancy, our heart goes out to you and your family. We were saddened to hear of Don's passing. I have many good memories of Don, having worked with him as a fellow AA pilot and then the fun times with the Grey Eagles. Please accept our sympathy. He will be greatly missed. Art and April Culver
- Art & April Culver, Vero Beach, FL
Nancy; We are so sorry for your loss. Don and I were buddies in the ct NG. He will be missed by many people. Dick & Shelly Goupil
- Di k &Shelly Goupil, Anderson, SC
Dear Nancy, We are so sorry to hear of the loss of Don. Although it's been a while, I remember flying with Don in the CT National Guard, visits to your homes in New Canaan and Norwalk, and your visit to our summer place in RI. All good memories. Our condolences and best wishes.
- Bob & Jean Duckworth, Norwalk, CT
Dear Nancy Our hearts and deepest sympathy go out to you and your family.Don was a fine man and a good friend. We will keep you in our prayers.
- Audrey & Ben Buckner, Norwalk, CT
Mrs. Craig Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of loss. Mom and Dad had wonderful times with you and Don. Jane, Jan, Patty and Mike
- McSally Children, Norwalk, CT
Nancy, we hold many fond memories of the good times had with you and Don. You are in our thoughts and prayers today and always.
- Lois and Joe Chenail, South Dennis, MA
Nancy, we hold many fond memories of the good times had with you and Don. You are in our thoughts and prayers today and always.
- Lois and Joe Chenail, South Dennis, MA
Nancy, Don was such a great guy - always a gentleman and fun to be with. We have many wonderful memories of being with both of you at WPI and beach parties on Cape Cod. Don was one of a kind and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Lots of love, Barbara and Allen Levesque WPI'59
- Allen & Barbara Levesque, Chelmsford, MA
Our love , thoughts and prayers go out to two wonderful friends at this sad time. We'll remember the good times and the joy you both brought to our Cape Cod gatherings.
- Stan and Nicki Graveline, West Dennis, MA
I am so sad for the passing of Don, he has been a true friend for many years. May God receive him and bless his lovely wife Nancy and all their family. My thoughts of Don will never wane and I truly hope to be with him some time in the future.
- John J. Francisco, Auburn, AL
I had been working forKaman Aircraft in Hartford Ct as a expermental test pilot. I was introduced to Don thru a third party after I had joined American Airlines and convinced him he should too. I always kidded him thru the years that he owed me half of his pay check. Truly a great guy and will be missed by all. Bon voyage Don. Dan Sharp
- Dan Sharp, Palm Coast, FL
Dearest Nancy, Our thoughts and prayers are with you in the loss of your Donald. Mike has many warm memories of Don as a close friend and classmate at WPI. We remember with joy the great birthday parties you gave for Don here on Cape Cod as well as so many other good times here and in Vermont. Stay well and strong, Nancy. Love, Dorothy & Mike
- Mike & Dorothy Stephens, Brewster, MA
Dear Nancy, I was so very saddened to read of Don's death. Please accept my sincere and deep sympathy. Deborah Black
- Deborah O. Black, Savannah, GA
Dear Nancy We read with sadness Don's obituary. We send our condolences and love. It was a blessing to know Don--so accomplished and always a gentleman, always upbeat and can-do. Peace Bill and Ann Rawstron
- Bill and Ann Rawstron, Northborough, MI
My deepest sympathies to Nancy and family on the passing of Don. He was always such a nice man and full of good cheer. I will remember you all in my thoughts and prayers.
- Eleanor D. McMahon, Member-Shorehaven Golf Club East Norwalk, CT
My prayers for Nancy and the family. Don was a wonderful person to work with at WPI. I served with Don on the Alumni Council at WPI in the 1990s.
- Neil Norum, West Boylston, MA
Dear Nancy, My sincere sympathy.I know you had a wonderful marriage and he will be greatly missed. I will remember you and your family in my prayers. Very sincerely yours, Peggy Hickey
- Peggy Hickey, Auburn, MA
Goodbye to a fine Captain and a talented and admirable man.
- Walter Tingle, Annapolis, MD
I flew with and knew a fine man.
- David MacKenzie, Warren, CT
Our condolence to Nancy and the family members of a fine gentleman.
- John and Sue Connelly, Milford, CT
His smiling face, his friendliness, and his positive, up-beat, can do attitude will be missed. A man of great integrity, who was loved and respected by all who knew him. It's a very sad day to learn that he is gone.
- Phil Hunt, Frisco, TX
Gary Yudell put it perfectly!
- joe lenihan, Southbury, CT
Dear NANCY, Our thoughts are with you on the passing of Don.Our prayers will be with you as you go thru this difficult time. God Bless you and keep you well. Love Elaine and Eric
- ERIC FRIBERG, TOMS RIVER, NJ
Dear Nancy, Sincere condolences to you and all the family on the passing of a fine man, and a dear classmate.
- Dick Barlow, Sarasota, FL
Don and I enjoyed each other's company, golf, the Grey Eagles and just talking. He will be sorely missed.
- Bob & Terry Mangam, Scottsdale, AZ
Nancy, We were shocked to hear of Don's passing. We had no idea he was near to death. You are in our thoughts and prayers, and they will help you find peace. We have the fondest memories of Don and you, and we cherish them. And now Don is at peace with all his memories, too.
- Bob and DeEtte Hoch, Trophy Club, TX
Don was one of the kindest and caring souls I have had the pleasure of knowing. I will always be grateful for his guidance and counsel during my early MIA Grey Eagle days; his advice was priceless and my life has been all the richer for knowing him.
- Peter Eschauzier, Naples, FL
Nancy, Please accept my sincerest condolences. Don and I became friends when he worked with VP-46. I didn't get to see Don often after we both joined American, but I always enjoyed the time we did get to see each other. Will Eral Capt. AA Retired.
- Willson Eral, Honollulu, HI
It was a pleasure to know Don, from being a new hire at LaGuardia, to being active in The Grey Eagles. Our condolences to Nancy and God Bless.
- Arnold & Mary Detmer, Ojai, CA
Don was one of the really good guys. He will be missed by everyone that has ever known him. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to Nancy and the rest of his friends and family. Rest in peace Don.
- Gary Yudell, Holland, PA
Don will be missed by many especially his wife, Nancy. I remember so many times we were all together and Don was a gentleman all the way. My prayers go out for Don and Nancy. You are both well loved. Dick Wright Jan. 2, 2010 WPI '57
- Dick Wright, Acton, MA
Dear Donald, I will miss you and always cherish the time I was able to spend with you and Nancy. With deepest sympathy, Lorna Ball
- Lorna Ball, St Catharines, ON
Don was the first captain I flew with on the line as a 727 flight engineer at American Airlines. On November 2, 1986, we flew from LGA to ORD. We subsequently flew the DC-10 together, including a ferry flight from LGA to JFK when Don's son Mat came along for the ride. I was also one of Don's early tax clients. He was one of the good guys that I have never forgotten. Don, may you always have tailwinds and following seas. God bless you.
- Capt. Craig Gordon, Pompano Beach, FL
Nancy, I'm so grateful for that phone call before the holidays. You both are such special people, and I will never forget the memories of watching the Craig boys growing up in New Canaan. God bless you, and may Don Rest in Peace.
- Richard Nota, Murrells Inlet, SC
Jack and Andree Connors extend our deepest condolences to Nancy and Sons on the recent loss of Donald Craig.
- Jack and Andree Connors, Shrewsbury, MA
Nancy, Tom and I want to send to thoughts and prayers to you. We know you are going through a really difficult time now, being just one year today since our son, Nick, died, we definitely remember how hard things are the short days after. We love you and hope to see you sometime in the near future.
- Tom and Laura Hoch, Aurora, CO
Nancy: I was so sad to hear about Don. I have so many wonderful memories of both of you. It was always such a delight for me to babysit the boys and then my first trip to the Cape with you is still in my memory. Oh, you all made so much fun of me because of the sunburn! You and Don shared so many meals with the Cook family in New Canaan. And you both were at all of our important events- like ALL of our weddings. You have both been my 2nd Mom and Dad. You will always be in my prayers. So much love, Neena
- Neena McMahan, Goose Creek, SC
Dear Nancy and Family, Surprised and saddened to read of Don's passing. At this time of loss there are no words to soften the pain. Know that you are all being thought about with special love; the love and caring of family and friends that surrounds you will give you strength and hope for tomorrow. Don was a great guy and will be missed by many. Sincere condolences, Mary DeKlyn Still at Charles Cove Condominium & Shorehaven Golf Club Member
- Mary F. DeKlyn, East Norwalk, CT
Nancy, please accept my condolences. I had the opportunity to work for Don- washing windows somewhere about 1970 or so . Our first job was a house out on the L.I. Sound. I must have scraped an inch of salt off the windows just to get to the glass. I'll never forget that day! A great memory about working hard and doing it right. A lesson that Don reinforced for me. The Craig's were always at the major Cook events- it has been like I have another Aunt and Uncle! I know that's how we all feel. We will miss his laughter and his big smile. Love, Tedd
- Tedd Cook, Southlake, TX
Nancy, our heart goes out to you and your family. We were saddened to hear of Don's passing. I have many good memories of Don, having worked with him as a fellow AA pilot and then the fun times with the Grey Eagles. Please accept our sympathy. He will be greatly missed. Art and April Culver
- Art & April Culver, Vero Beach, FL
Nancy; We are so sorry for your loss. Don and I were buddies in the ct NG. He will be missed by many people. Dick & Shelly Goupil
- Di k &Shelly Goupil, Anderson, SC
Dear Nancy, We are so sorry to hear of the loss of Don. Although it's been a while, I remember flying with Don in the CT National Guard, visits to your homes in New Canaan and Norwalk, and your visit to our summer place in RI. All good memories. Our condolences and best wishes.
- Bob & Jean Duckworth, Norwalk, CT
Dear Nancy Our hearts and deepest sympathy go out to you and your family.Don was a fine man and a good friend. We will keep you in our prayers.
- Audrey & Ben Buckner, Norwalk, CT
Mrs. Craig Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of loss. Mom and Dad had wonderful times with you and Don. Jane, Jan, Patty and Mike
- McSally Children, Norwalk, CT
Nancy, we hold many fond memories of the good times had with you and Don. You are in our thoughts and prayers today and always.
- Lois and Joe Chenail, South Dennis, MA
Nancy, we hold many fond memories of the good times had with you and Don. You are in our thoughts and prayers today and always.
- Lois and Joe Chenail, South Dennis, MA
Nancy, Don was such a great guy - always a gentleman and fun to be with. We have many wonderful memories of being with both of you at WPI and beach parties on Cape Cod. Don was one of a kind and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Lots of love, Barbara and Allen Levesque WPI'59
- Allen & Barbara Levesque, Chelmsford, MA
Our love , thoughts and prayers go out to two wonderful friends at this sad time. We'll remember the good times and the joy you both brought to our Cape Cod gatherings.
- Stan and Nicki Graveline, West Dennis, MA
I am so sad for the passing of Don, he has been a true friend for many years. May God receive him and bless his lovely wife Nancy and all their family. My thoughts of Don will never wane and I truly hope to be with him some time in the future.
- John J. Francisco, Auburn, AL
I had been working forKaman Aircraft in Hartford Ct as a expermental test pilot. I was introduced to Don thru a third party after I had joined American Airlines and convinced him he should too. I always kidded him thru the years that he owed me half of his pay check. Truly a great guy and will be missed by all. Bon voyage Don. Dan Sharp
- Dan Sharp, Palm Coast, FL
Dearest Nancy, Our thoughts and prayers are with you in the loss of your Donald. Mike has many warm memories of Don as a close friend and classmate at WPI. We remember with joy the great birthday parties you gave for Don here on Cape Cod as well as so many other good times here and in Vermont. Stay well and strong, Nancy. Love, Dorothy & Mike
- Mike & Dorothy Stephens, Brewster, MA
Dear Nancy, I was so very saddened to read of Don's death. Please accept my sincere and deep sympathy. Deborah Black
- Deborah O. Black, Savannah, GA
Dear Nancy We read with sadness Don's obituary. We send our condolences and love. It was a blessing to know Don--so accomplished and always a gentleman, always upbeat and can-do. Peace Bill and Ann Rawstron
- Bill and Ann Rawstron, Northborough, MI
My deepest sympathies to Nancy and family on the passing of Don. He was always such a nice man and full of good cheer. I will remember you all in my thoughts and prayers.
- Eleanor D. McMahon, Member-Shorehaven Golf Club East Norwalk, CT
My prayers for Nancy and the family. Don was a wonderful person to work with at WPI. I served with Don on the Alumni Council at WPI in the 1990s.
- Neil Norum, West Boylston, MA
Dear Nancy, My sincere sympathy.I know you had a wonderful marriage and he will be greatly missed. I will remember you and your family in my prayers. Very sincerely yours, Peggy Hickey
- Peggy Hickey, Auburn, MA
Goodbye to a fine Captain and a talented and admirable man.
- Walter Tingle, Annapolis, MD
I flew with and knew a fine man.
- David MacKenzie, Warren, CT
Our condolence to Nancy and the family members of a fine gentleman.
- John and Sue Connelly, Milford, CT
His smiling face, his friendliness, and his positive, up-beat, can do attitude will be missed. A man of great integrity, who was loved and respected by all who knew him. It's a very sad day to learn that he is gone.
- Phil Hunt, Frisco, TX
Gary Yudell put it perfectly!
- joe lenihan, Southbury, CT
Dear NANCY, Our thoughts are with you on the passing of Don.Our prayers will be with you as you go thru this difficult time. God Bless you and keep you well. Love Elaine and Eric
- ERIC FRIBERG, TOMS RIVER, NJ
Dear Nancy, Sincere condolences to you and all the family on the passing of a fine man, and a dear classmate.
- Dick Barlow, Sarasota, FL
Don and I enjoyed each other's company, golf, the Grey Eagles and just talking. He will be sorely missed.
- Bob & Terry Mangam, Scottsdale, AZ
Nancy, We were shocked to hear of Don's passing. We had no idea he was near to death. You are in our thoughts and prayers, and they will help you find peace. We have the fondest memories of Don and you, and we cherish them. And now Don is at peace with all his memories, too.
- Bob and DeEtte Hoch, Trophy Club, TX
Don was one of the kindest and caring souls I have had the pleasure of knowing. I will always be grateful for his guidance and counsel during my early MIA Grey Eagle days; his advice was priceless and my life has been all the richer for knowing him.
- Peter Eschauzier, Naples, FL
Nancy, Please accept my sincerest condolences. Don and I became friends when he worked with VP-46. I didn't get to see Don often after we both joined American, but I always enjoyed the time we did get to see each other. Will Eral Capt. AA Retired.
- Willson Eral, Honollulu, HI
It was a pleasure to know Don, from being a new hire at LaGuardia, to being active in The Grey Eagles. Our condolences to Nancy and God Bless.
- Arnold & Mary Detmer, Ojai, CA
Don was one of the really good guys. He will be missed by everyone that has ever known him. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to Nancy and the rest of his friends and family. Rest in peace Don.
- Gary Yudell, Holland, PA
Don will be missed by many especially his wife, Nancy. I remember so many times we were all together and Don was a gentleman all the way. My prayers go out for Don and Nancy. You are both well loved. Dick Wright Jan. 2, 2010 WPI '57
- Dick Wright, Acton, MA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
