Craig Allison Irwin, age 79, died Monday, Nov. 24, at his home in Wayland.
Craig was young at heart…always. He was the hardest worker but behind the calloused hands and the dirty jeans, was a kid-like spirit. He had a gift for perfectly timed, sarcastic one-liners that brought joy and laughter.
Craig had a great love for animals, particularly horses, participating in 4-H from a young age, going on to training and breaking horses with his uncle, Everett.
He also served his country in the United States Army from 1964 to 1967. In recent years, he mostly enjoyed spending time with and being “Papa” to his only granddaughter and best friend, RaeLynn.
Craig is survived by his wife of 57 years, Karen Irwin; children Angela Irwin, Allison Irwin; granddaughter, RaeLynn; siblings Brent (Irene) Irwin, Daren (Monica) Irwin; sisters-in-law Terri (Dick) Spaugh, Linda Holcomb; nieces and nephews Joscelyn (Ed) Timm, Terri (Glenn) Hutton, Mitchell Irwin, Kellie (Dale) O’Leary, Rich Spaugh, Raymond (Tina) Spaugh, Ryan (Jamie) Spaugh, Christin Jones, Jeremy Holcomb, Jodi Church, Matt Holcomb; and many cousins, great-nieces and great-nephews with whom he greatly enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and quality time; along with other extended family and friends.
The family would like to recognize Craig’s close friendships with his Wayland Union High School, class of 1964, including lifelong friends, Joe and Joan Miller, and Bob and Susie Standish.
Craig was preceded in death by his parents Eugene and Juanita Irwin; sister, Ann (Galen) Brown; brothers-in-law Dennis Holcomb and Ronald Holcomb; and parents-in-law Bernard and Doris Holcomb.
Per his wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of Craig’s life will be held at a later date. In memory of Craig and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dorr American Legion Post #127.
