Charles "Chuck" Craig's Obituary
Charles William (Chuck) Craig, age 95, died on October 18th, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Tacoma. Special thanks to Catherine Rehberger, ARNP and Dr. Jamal Anyalebechi at Franciscan Cardiothoracic Surgery Associates for their care and support of Chuck and family.
Charles William Craig was born on September 7th, 1930, in Seattle, Washington to Charles Benjamin Craig and Marie Catherine Munshausen.
Chuck, a lifelong Pierce County resident, remained active until his death. From stocking shelves at a local grocery at age 14, to driving for Lyft until age 92, Chuck enjoyed a productive work life. His free time was equally busy. Whether attending weekly meetings at his lodge, cooking new recipes, or doting over his Border Collie, Dobie, Chuck always had a project. A whiz at anything electronic, Chuck served as a radioman in the US Navy and a telecommunications engineer for Pacific Northwest Bell. In addition, Chuck was an active hobbyist. Friends and family said he could repair anything. His passions included winemaking, automotive restoration and repair, piano playing, gardening, cooking, camping, computer programming, electronics and radios.
Chuck had two happy marriages: The first to Carol Hahnenkratt in 1953, and then after her death, to Arlene Van Horn in 2004. He is predeceased by both wives and his son, Dennis. Chuck is survived by daughter, Kim Pedersen and niece, Sunny Cairns. Additionally, Chuck leaves five nieces, thirteen grandnieces and nephews and numerous great-grandnieces and nephews. Private family graveside services will be held on November 13.
Additionally, the following remarks by Chuck’s Masonic friends:
Chuck was a 57-year member of Freemasonry, active the entire time. He was Worshipful Master three times: At Horace W Tyler Lodge #290 in 1975 and 2000, and at Parkland-Lakewood Lodge #299 in 2006. He was District 14 Deputy to the Grand Master in 1978-1979 and served several other Grand Lodge committees over the years. Chuck Craig was a 52-year member of Eastern Star and belonged to Tyler Chapter and Faith Chapter. Chuck served as Worthy Patron of Faith Chapter in 2007. In Order of the Amaranth, Chuck was a past Royal Patron of Rhodendron and Lincoln Courts. He was also a Past Grand Royal Patron from 1993-1994.
On November 22, there will be a Masonic Service honoring Chuck Craig at Horace W. Tyler Temple at 2930 Grandview Dr W, University Place at 11 am. The Lodge room will be formally dedicated to Chuck. All are invited. Light refreshments will be served.**
What’s your fondest memory of Charles?
What’s a lesson you learned from Charles?
Share a story where Charles' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Charles you’ll never forget.
How did Charles make you smile?