Clayton Leo Craig, 87

Clayton (Clay) Leo Craig went to be with the Lord on Thursday, April 20, 2023. He was born April 9, 1936, in Los Angeles, Calif. He was raised in Omaha, Neb.

Growing up Clay took various jobs to help supplement his family’s income. After finishing high school, he pursued a career as an Optician in Colorado where he married his first wife. In 1970, they adopted their son, Jeff, while living in Oregon. In 1974, they moved to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, to pursue a job opportunity at Coeur d’Alene Optical where he rose to the position of optical manager.

Clay’s marriage ended and he began attending church at the invitation of a good friend. He soon accepted Christ and became a committed Christian which would lead to big changes in his life. It was in church where he met Barbara (Mickey) Wheeler.

Clay and Mickey were married in 1982. In 1985, they relocated to Lewiston, Idaho. They spent much of their time attending and serving in various churches which gave them great joy and fulfillment. Once retired from his optical career, he worked part-time as a food demonstrator at the Clarkston Costco where he enjoyed meeting and interacting with the customers. In his spare time, he loved to fish and work in his yard.

In May 2021 Clay and Mickey moved back to Coeur d’Alene to be closer to family.

Clay was known for a big smile a joyful humble spirit and a great love for the God he served. He was a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather.

Clayton was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Pearl Craig, and his brothers, Kingsley and John. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Barbara Craig, his sister, Beverly (Walt) Hunt, his son, Jeff Craig, his step-children, Melissa (Ron) Hollingsworth and Jeff (Kathy) Wheeler, as well as two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Family and Friends are invited to attend a memorial service Sunday, June 4, 2023, at 1 p.m. at North Star Retirement Community, 2340 W. Seltice Way, Coeur d’Alene ID.

In Lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Salvation Army in Clay’s honor.

Bell Tower Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.

Please visit Clay's Online Memorial at https://belltower.funeraltechweb.com/tribute/details/1829/Clayton-Craig/obituary.html#tribute-start.