Paul R. Craig

Paul R. Craig, 83, of Springfield, died Saturday, July 16, 2022 at Springfield Memorial Hospital. He was born October 11, 1938, in Springfield, the son of Paul and Helen Craig. He married Malinda York on April 22, 1994.

Paul loved to read and could remember, in detail, what most any book that you pulled from his library was about. He and Malinda were soulmates and traveled the world together. Their life together revolved around books, music, art, food, and wine.

Paul began his career working at Spencer Nursery and later became a licensed landscape architect. After realizing that that was hard work, he pursued a career in state government which included IDOT, SBOE and Teacher’s Retirement System. He retired after 13 years at UIUC at the Institute of Government and Public Affairs. The university afforded him the privilege of getting to know many Illinois mayors and municipal clerks, forming friendships statewide through the leadership program Paul created and taught. He was a United States Army veteran, serving the country for three years.

He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Lynn.

Paul is survived by his wife of over 28 years, Malinda; daughters, Lori, Lisa, Melissa, and Tammy; sister, Helen; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and his loving dog, Raylan.

Cremation has been accorded by Staab Funeral Home – Springfield.

Memorial Gathering: 10 am – 1 pm, Friday, August 5, 2022 at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield. A procession to Oak Ridge Cemetery will follow the memorial gathering.

Graveside Service: 2 pm, Friday, August 5, 2022 at Oak Ridge Cemetery, where military honors will be conducted.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Oral History Program at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum or WILD Canine Rescue, 3309 Robbins Rd #109, Springfield, IL 62704.

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