Emmett Laverne Craig

Emmett Laverne Craig, 91, of Belvidere, IL, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born on November 9, 1934, in Belvidere, IL, the son of Emmett B. and Lillian Mae (Meinheit) Craig. He graduated from Belvidere High School and then went on to serve our country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Emmett married the love of his life, Nancy Mason, on August 11, 1957, in Belvidere, IL. He retired from Nicor after many years as an arc welder. He enjoyed coaching sports and woodworking. Later in life, he worked for Ace Hardware in Belvidere. He was a proud supporter of and actively involved with the Special Olympics. He never missed a game his grandchildren played and was truly a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He is loved and will be missed by his children, Kevin Craig, Jeff (Lori) Craig, Dan (Claudia) Craig, and Mindi (Gene) Sorensen; grandchildren, Randi (Bryan) Gatlin, Bailey (Luke) Mitchell, Nate Craig, Austin Craig, McKenzie Craig, Tysen Craig, Brandon (Taylor) Roderick, and Allie Roderick; and great-grandchildren, Bryce, Kash, Krew, Ryan, Mavrik, Mckoy, Ashton, and Brynlee. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife, Nancy, and his siblings. There will be a graveside service at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, January 30, 2026, in the chapel at Highland Garden of Memories Cemetery in Belvidere, IL. Military honors will be held. Immediately after the committal, the family would like to invite friends and family for a celebration of life with luncheon at the Hidden Aerie in Belvidere, IL. To honor Emmett’s life and love for his teams, the family encourages guests to wear Chicago Bears or Chicago Blackhawks apparel. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.belviderefh.com.