Craig “Butch” Strandberg
Craig (Butch) Clifford Strandberg was born December 20, 1940 to Clifford and Marie (Lumby) Strandberg.
Craig grew up in the Mahtowa and moved to Mora graduating from Mora High School 1958. He attended business school and was drafted into the army at age 26. In the army he was the Finance Secretary for the 169th in Fort Bliss, TX. Afterwards Craig became a career accountant with his last position at Magnum Auto Tire Sales.
He married Patricia Merten in 1962 from Willmar MN. Married for 48 years, they lived in Crystal MN until her death 2010. Craig moved to North Branch in 2015, there he married a high school friend Janelle Mork in July 2020.
His sisters remember Craig as a big brother who helped care for them. Growing up he appreciated time at his grandparent’s homes. Over the years he often recounted time with his cousin’s deer hunting and bringing his pony to his god parents’ home in Almelund.
His favorite holiday was Christmas where he loved his antique Christmas décor. Craig was a trusted friend in his neighborhood. He was generous. If he heard you admiring one of his collectibles, you might find it hiding under the next Christmas tree.
After facing a number of recent health challenges, Craig died peacefully on June 19, 2025 at Fairview Southdale. He is survived by his wife Janelle Mork along with his brother Mark and (Cathy) Strandberg, sisters, Mary and (George) Saarela, Judy Neve and (partner Don) and by several beloved nieces and nephews. He also is remembered by Janelle’s children Steve and (Barb) Mork, Laird and (Cathy) Mork and Debra and (Jeff) Rod.
A memorial service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday June 28, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church in North Branch with a visitation starting at 10 am. A luncheon will be held following the service.
In lieu of flowers, please direct memorial gifts to the Wyoming Humane Society or Trinity Lutheran Church.
The family wishes to thank all those who made Craig feel at home in North Branch and at Trinity Lutheran Church. We also thank the staff at Fairview Wyoming and Southdale for their excellent care. Craig will be deeply missed by those that knew him.