Craig Warren Smith

Craig Warren Smith, 77, of Elkhart, died Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at VA-Hospital, Marion, Indiana, with his family by his side.  Craig was born on January 21, 1947, in Elkhart, to the late Albert Lee and Phyllis (Wenger) Smith. Preceding him in death were his parents, brothers, Ron L Wenger in 2012, Randy Smith in 2019, and half-brother Al Smith.

Craig married Madeline (Erdelyi) Smith on October 15, 1966.  Surviving is his wife of 58 years, and their daughters, Stephanie Mirer (Richard and their children-Morrison, Oliver, Charles) of California, and Jennifer Smith (Schmille Barhams and their children-Whitley, Beau, Brooklyn) of Elkhart.  Craig is also survived by brothers, William Smith (Linda), Gary Smith (Betty), Phillip Smith (Patty), Dennis Smith (Cindy), and sister, Kimberly (Kay) Clark (Jon), all of Elkhart, half-brother Lonnie Smith (Cindy) of Pennsylvania, half-sister Sandy Replogle of Florida, and sisters-in-law Margaret Wenger and Cathey Smith.  He has many surviving nieces, nephews, and (Erdelyi) in-law family members.

Craig served in the USAF from 1966-1970 and was stationed at RAF Bentwaters, England, and Minot AFB, North Dakota.  He graduated from Indiana University in 1973 with a B.S. in Marketing and Advertising.  He started his working career in Sales at Riblet Products Corporation, where he was mentored by Bob Riblet.  Craig worked in the RV/MH Industry most of his life, but continued on as Sales Manager for Marlin Miller at Smart Cabinetry.  His life went full circle after retirement, where he worked as a Security Guard for Heartland RV (he was in Security Police in the USAF), retiring a second time in 2020.

Craig was a 1965 graduate of Jimtown High School, where he played football, basketball, baseball and ran track.  He served on the Board of Baugo Community Schools for 12 years during the ‘80s-‘90s.  He was a member of the Baugo Lions Club, and Four Lakes Golf Country Club.  Craig enjoyed all sports, and was an avid fan of Notre Dame, the New York Yankees, and especially all the sports teams his grandchildren participated on.

To honor Craig’s wishes, there will be no visitation.  A graveside service with military honors will be held at Olive Cemetery East.  Our family would like to express heartfelt gratitude and thanks to the late Congresswoman Jackie Walorski, and the Doctors, Nurses, and staff at Northern Indiana VA of St. Joseph County (NP Fox and Dr. Eaton) and Marion, Indiana (Unit 172-B) for the wonderful, loving care extended to Craig.    Also, a special thank you to our Veteran Service Officer, Pam Schweizer-Betz MCVSO, who guided and assisted us.

Memorial donations in Mr. Smith’s name may be made to Baugo Lion’s Club (mail check c/o C. Carithers, 30724 Dunhill Crossing, Elkhart, IN 46517), or Wounded Warriors Project (P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS  66675).  Cruz Family Funeral Home of Osceola is in charge of arrangements.  To light a virtual candle, share a story of Craig's life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.

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Solder’s Prayer

Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands.

Protect them as they protect us.

Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need.

Amen