Craig Lee
August 16, 1950 ~ January 24, 2016
Craig Lee age 65 of Lawler, Iowa died Sunday, January 24, 2016, at Mercy Medical Center in New Hampton.
Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 27, 2016, at Harvest Church in New Hampton with Pastor Doug Harvey officiating.
Friends may greet the family from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the church on Wednesday.
Craig Thorley Martin Lee was born August 16, 1950, in Decorah, Iowa, the son of Clyde and Irene (Threlfall) Lee. He graduated from Kee High School in Lansing, Iowa in 1968, where he participated in band, choir and the debate team. Craig continued his education at the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse earning a bachelor degree in Biology and History. In August of 1972, Craig enlisted in the United States Air Force. He completed his basic training in California and was stationed at Minot Air Force Base in Minot, North Dakota, where he was a navigator on B -52 Bombers.
Craig was united in marriage to Karen Sires on July 30, 1971, in New Albin, IA. To this union three daughters, Errin, Heather and Stephanie were born. The couple later divorced.
Craig was very tech savvy and owned his own computer business. He met Diane Schneider and was married on August 28, 1992, in La Crosse, WI. Craig heard the call to ministry and attended the Dubuque Theological Seminary, Dubuque, IA. He graduated with a Masters degree in Divinity on December 15, 1994. His first call was to a Yoked Parish in Green Valley, Illinois. He served as pastor for six years. Then Craig felt called to the First Presbyterian Church in Alta, Iowa where he spent his next thirteen years. Craig was honorably retired from the ministry on July 1, 2015 because of serious health reasons. The couple moved to Lawler Iowa in June 2014.
Craig enjoyed photography, hiking, fishing, collecting coins & trains and woodworking. Craig and Diane enjoyed vacationing together including cruises. Craig cherished time spent with family and friends, especially his grandchildren.
Craig is survived by his wife of 23 years, Diane; three daughters, Errin (Brad) Wilker of Castalia, IA, Heather Lenz of New Albin, IA, Stephanie (Chris) Ahles of New Albin, IA; five grandchildren, Aubrie Lenz, Bretton Wilker, Ashton Lenz, Brandon Wilker, and Evan Lenz; two sisters, Ann (Roy) Howard of Brailsford, England, Victoria Lee of Lincoln, NE.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
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I first met Craig and Diane when they accepted the Pastorate at the Yoked Parish in Green Valley, Illinois. I soon learned that we shared a love not only for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, but also music. I sang in the Methodist Church Choir with Craig and many times, he would ask me to sing a particular song as a solo for the Worship Service. I sang many solos at both churches in Green Valley and Craig never failed to comment on the beautiful song or on my interpretation of the music. When he made visits to the local area nursing homes, I would always make an attempt to be there also so I could help with the service or share a song. I kept in touch with them after they left Green Valley and it was always a joy to receive one of their cards or letters. I was saddened to hear of Craig’s passing, but I rejoice in knowing that he is now in Heaven and enjoying all the splendors of that and in the very presence of our Loving Lord. He is no longer in any pain and is walking those golden streets. When God calls me home to Heaven, I will see Craig again and we both will sing in that Heavenly Choir. What a joy that will be! My prayers and sympathy are with his wife, Diane, and his family and all of the friends who will grieve for him and miss him on this earth. Sending you all my love – Martha Dunnam, Green Valley, IL
Peg@Family Dental, Storm Lake lit a candle in memory of Craig Lee
Florist Choice Bouquet was purchased for the family of Craig Lee.
I love you, Dad!
We are all so sorry that Craig passed away so suddenly. Our thoughts and prayers are with all his family in the States. We have so many memories of his time spent with us in the UK. Love Ann and Roy
These are beautiful pictures, Ann! Thanks for sharing them! xxoo
Diane, We just want you to know you are in our thoughts and prayers. All of your friends at Millennium Therapy.
Divine Peace Bouquet was purchased for the family of Craig Lee.
Diane, I only knew Craig from Presbytery meetings, but always appreciated the smile he would share with me. Our prayers are with you and your family. Dennis L. Sohl, Stated Clerk, Presbytery of Prospect Hill.
Diane, We are so very very sorry to hear about Craig. I always loved hearing of your vacations and Craig brought back a rock one year from your travels for me plus you bringing the shells. He always had just the right words to say when I needed them. He knew just what God wanted me to hear. We have so many good memories of Craig. He is with the Lord and no longer in pain. Many hugs for you. You are in our thoughts and prayers Diane. Again so very sorry. Hugs Love Billie and Gailyn Nehring
Diane, We were so sorry to hear of Craig’s passing. May God Bless him. If you need anything please just let us know, we are just across the street. Know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Dennis and Diane
Prayers for all of you–Diane may Jesus wrap you in his arms. Craig will be missed. Glad that his pain is now over. If the Presbytery can do anything, let us know. Rev. Tim Harmon, Presbytery of Prospect Hill
Diane, I am so very sorry for your loss! Craig was a great guy and will be missed by all of us. I know his pain has come to an end, but your pain is only beginning. I am here for you if you need me. I care.