Honored Friend

First my heart goes out to Craig's family. He was such a wonderful spirit and I will miss him dearly. I first met Craig in middle school but we really became good friends during high school. I was one of the collection of band geeks that did marching band with Craig. Most memories I have of Craig our similar to what has already been written. He was someone I could always talk to when I was having a problem or a bad day. I have many found memories of talking with Craig and we'd share what we were going through at the time.

After high school we would catch up every once in a while. My favorite time was when I first saw him after his mission. We were both doing EFY together and I remember during one of our breaks taking a couple of hours and catching up on what happened over the past years. It was wonderful to see the love for the Lord he had and that he was still the same old Craig. I was later amazed in January when I found out about his hand. I was not surprised to find him using it later as an opportunity to do greater good for others and knowing that the challenge only made him better.

I think what I will always remember about Craig, besides his constant smile, was his genuine love and kindness toward everyone. He was such a great example and I will greatly miss him. Today at church I was thinking of Craig and what I would write about him. The hymn "God Be With You Tell We Meet Again" came to mind. I felt at peace knowing that I would someday see my friend again and that I knew he was doing a greater work at this time. I know I will see him again and until then may God be with him.

--Erin Dearing-McGillic