Birth date: Jun 25, 1947 Death date: Aug 18, 2012
Craig A. Hills, age 65, passed away Saturday, August 18, 2012 at home surrounded by his family. He was born on June 25, 1947 in Grinnell, Iowa to Arthur Charles and Shirley Mae (Theobald) Hills. Craig had a strong love for the Lor Read Obituary
Sorry to only have just heard about Craig's home-going. Mary, you and your family have my deepest condolences. I take solace in many fond memories - from Ann Arbor, to Chicago, to Traverse City and Grand Haven. All any of us can hope to do is leave the world better than we found it - and Craig did that in a very profound way. Dave Law.
I met Craig back in 1993 when we both served on Ben Patterson's Vision Ministries board at Hope College. Being a charismatic brother Craig and I instantly related to one another and became fast friends. His faith was a tremendous example to me and a testament to his love for Jesus and his extraordinary love for people. If I was having a bad day I knew one call to Craig would change it. I can't count the number of times he called me out of the blue and my day was better for having talked to him. There were many times when we would be sitting in a restaurant talking about live and he would ask "what's going on?" and I would tell him all was well. Then he would look me in the eye and ask, "OK, now tell me what's really going on?" Craig was an extraordinary man and a brother I could always count on to tell me the truth. Many times we would be sitting in a restaurant having lunch and he would say, "give me your hands" and I knew what was coming as he would begin to pray. I cherished my time with him on this side and I look forward to my time in eternity with him on the other. I miss you brother and I am a much better man for having known you. Mary thanks for being the wonderful companion and partner in life that you have been to my dear friend. He will be missed by all that knew him. Bill van Steenis, Holland, Michigan
Craig will be greatly missed ... he was a true example of Jesus! We love you, Mary and are here for you - we will continue to lift you up in prayer and trust the Lord to carry you through ... Much love dear friend xoxo - Brad & Carol Whittum
I have many fond memories of Uncle Craig. Most of these memories involve spending time at the wonderful home that Uncle Craig and Aunt Mary created and gratuitously shared with me and the Hills family during many holiday/birthday/other celebrations. Later on, I was lucky to share time w/ Uncle Craig, Dad and Grandpa watching Laker football games out in Allendale. I will miss his great hugs but not forget them!
Love,
Jeff
In the end, it was love that we learned in a Christian home that brought Craig and I together again. For some time during our life long relationship, we forgot the love of God and it was replaced with resentment, pride and arrogance. We always thought the other was to blame for our feelings and hurts. Some time before Craig's cancer returned, we learned to practice the teachings of Jesus Christ and love. We talked and emailed and finally let go of the walls of ignorance and let the spirit of God fill our hearts. We miss you brother. Steve
My memories of Craig go way back to the beginning days of Faith Fellowship and all of my memories are good - I wouldn't trade them for the world! I'm grateful to know that our friendship transcends time and that we can rest assured that we will see him (and others) again one day! Thank you Mary, Brien, and Lisa for sharing Craig with the rest of us...
So sorry to hear of your loss. Mrs. Hills, I have many great memories, as a child, of staying over your house with my sister Jenny. You both always made us feel so welcome. I will never forget how joyful and positive Mr. Hills was. He was like a ray of sunshine in the room. Most of my memories of him are back when we went to Faith Fellowship. Praying for you and ALL of your family during this hard time.
My condolences to all of you-- Mary, Brien and Lisa--I am so sad Craig went to heaven, he is missed already. My parents told me Saturday they always saw him rollerblading down Howard Street. I will always remember him; he was a hard guy to forget and an easy one to remember for his enthusiasm, great smile, great faith and welcoming arms.
I will miss seeing him every week here at Skidmore in Benton Harbor Michigan.
Susie Mann - Accounting @ Skidmore pump.
