Col. John Craig

Honorable, patriotic, respectable and a family man are only a few words to describe Col. John E. Craig. He was a responsible father, devoted husband and true friend to all. He understood commitment and demonstrated that understanding in many ways throughout his life.

Though the world was embroiled in a great and terrible war, the preceding decades had done much to improve the health of the nation. As domestic industries exponentially expanded, thousands of immigrants poured in from overseas to fill the surplus jobs. Each of these immigrants brought a little piece of their culture with them, and these pieces amalgamated into new and exciting American traditions. It was into this time of progression that William Blair and Madge (Roquet) Craig welcomed the birth of their second child, John Edward, on December 7, 1917, in Indianapolis, Indiana.

John, along with his older sister, Mary Alice and younger sister, Janet, grew up in the developing city of Indianapolis at 1420 North Alabama Street, where they attended Indianapolis Public School #27. William was a veterinarian while Madge remained at home caring for the children. John’s father was an avid hunter and taught his son how to hunt from a young age. Sadly, William died when John was just entering adulthood. It was obvious from a young age that John was a bright boy and even skipped a couple of grades in school. Though this wasn’t all that great because his smaller stature made it hard to compete in sports in school. In the neighborhood John played basketball at First Presbyterian Church, where his family was active, and made many lifelong friendships.

After high school, John entered Purdue University and attended from 1935 until 1938. He then went to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York graduating in 1942. In 1940 he met his future wife, Jane Robinson, who was a close friend and sorority sister of John’s sister Janet. Over the next couple of years their love for each other blossomed and they were married on June 14, 1942, in downtown Indianapolis. They were blessed with a son, John Robinson (called Rob), in 1944. Because of John’s military career, his family moved many times. While he was dedicated to his career, John felt a strong family was always important. In 1956, he took his family and sister Janet on vacation to England and Scotland where they met up with old relatives. These were great memories that lived in John’s heart.

John’s greatest achievements and accomplishments came during his honorable military career. During World War II, he served with the 91st Infantry Division as a Battery Commander primarily in Italy. In addition, he served as a Gunnery Instructor in the Artillery School from 1950-52. From 1953-56, John was stationed in Germany where he was the Operations, Plans and Training Officer for Atomic Artillery in the Seventh Army. He then went on to command the Fifth Artillery, 1st Infantry Division from 1957-59. In 1961, the Central Command was formed, and John held the key position of director of personnel (in military parlance J-1) during the creation of this headquarters. John retired from his prestigious military career in 1968, after serving in the U.S. Army Headquarters in Heidelberg, Germany. Besides his professional career, Col. John was also the recipient of the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star (twice).

Outside his professional life in the military, John took pleasure in a variety of activities. He had a passion for golf, and played whenever he got the chance. Whether at the officer’s club or anywhere else he could get a round in, John’s favorite place on earth was on a golf course. A real sports fan, John enjoyed following basketball and football games, particularly the Pacers, Colts and Boilermakers of Purdue University. During his time in Germany, he came to enjoy dining out. His favorite music was classical with Tchaikovsky being his choice composer. His grandchildren were also very special to him and although he didn’t see them much, John looked forward to hearing about their growing up years. He was a member of the Second Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis.

John Edward Craig, Col. U.S. Army (Ret.), 86, Indianapolis, died on August 9, 2004. He was preceded in death by his wife of more than 50 years, Jane (Robinson) Craig. Survivors include his son, John Robinson Craig; grandsons, Mark and Matthew Craig; great grandchildren, Timothee, Emma, and Diane Craig. Friends and family will gather on Thursday, August 12, from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Leppert Mortuary, Nora Chapel. Funeral service to celebrate his life will begin at 1 p.m. in the mortuary on Friday, August 13. You are invited to visit www.lifestorynet.com where you may read Col. Craig’s life story, sign the guest book, share a personal memory or order flowers.

All who knew Col. John E. Craig will treasure his memory.