Charles Richard Craddock

Charles Richard Craddock, 81, of Paw Paw, passed away peacefully Sunday, October 15, 2023, at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo. 

He was born February 27, 1942, in Kalamazoo, the son of Richard Craddock and Carla (Emmick) Craddock. 

Charles was a hardworking man who loved to serve his community. He started his career as a firefighter on the Kalamazoo Fire Department, before it was Kalamazoo Public Safety. After retiring as a firefighter, Charles went on to manage multiple jobs throughout the years. His last career job was his favorite, a bus driver for Paw Paw Public Schools! He spent ten years with the Paw Paw School system. He loved all the kids he transported and always made sure they were safe. Charles' love for the fire service continued after his retirement. He enjoyed collecting model die-cast fire trucks. He also loved to teach others about the importance of fire safety. On the side, Charles also enjoyed going to yard sales to see what fun things he could find. 

On February 15, 1964, he married the love of his life, Lois (Whisler) Craddock, who survives.

He is also survived by his two sons; Scott (Karleen) Craddock and Douglas (Amy) Craddock, one daughter; Catherine Cowles, six grandchildren; Kate (Matt) Rescsanszky, Kristen Craddock, Mara Craddock, Kari Craddock, Xander Craddock and Spencer Cowles, one sister; Marcia (Gary) Lewis, one brother; Roger (Kelli) Craddock, and one great-grandchild; Timothy Rescsanszky. 

Charles was preceeded in death by his parents; Richard and Carla Craddock and stepmother; Evelyn Craddock. 

Family and friends are invited to visit Saturday, October 21, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Decatur Bible Church, 80797 M-51 Highway, Decatur, where a memorial service will commence at 11a.m. with Pastor Steven Pace officiating. Charles will be laid to rest at Wildey Cemetery in Paw Paw. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the Decatur Bible Church or to University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center (link below). 

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