MICHAEL WILLIAM CRAIG

Anchorage resident, Michael William Craig, 36, died March 5, 2005 at his residence. He was born Dec. 17, 1968, in Anderson, Ind. He is survived by his mother, Patty; father, William "Butch" Ellis; stepmother, Tereasa Ellis; brother and sister-in-law, Bob and Julie Ellis; brother, Mike Ellis; niece, Emma Ellis; nephew, Benjamin Ellis; stepbrother, Daniel Bennett; stepsister, Ashley Bennett, all of Anderson, Ind.; several aunts, uncles, and cousins in the Buck and Ellis families; "his best gal," Deb Spaulding of Anchorage and his family at the Dry Dock and the Point. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Crystal and William Ellis and Zilpha and Terry Buck and uncles, Mike Ellis and Jimmy Buck.

Mr. Craig was a graduate of Anderson High School and MIT Tech School. He moved to Fairbanks in 1997, Wasilla/Palmer in 1998, and Anchorage in 1999. He was employed by Circle Plumbing and Heating. He was a member of the 12 Step Program. Mr. Craig received the Icicle Award from the Chosen Frozen. He enjoyed camping.

"Mike was a warm, wonderful, loving man who was always willing to give a helping hand. He fell in love with Alaska and felt like he found his real home. He had recently been awarded a service award from his home group for his service work at various events. He won the cool hat contest. He lived his life in high gear, enjoying every moment. He struggled with his addiction, which eventually took his life."

The family received friends one hour prior to a 2 p.m. funeral service held last Wednesday at Anchorage Funeral Home and Crematory. The Rev. Dean Bundy officiated. Cremation will follow and his remains will be scattered at his favorite campsite. Memorial contributions may be given to an account established at Wells Fargo Bank.