William R Craig Sr.

William Robert Craig, Sr., 79, of Dickson City, died on Sunday at Allied Skilled Nursing Center, Scranton.  His wife is the former Loretta Verchuk Craig.Born in Duryea, he was a lifelong resident before moving to Dickson City 5 years ago. His parents were David and Elizabeth Fries Craig.  He was former member of Holy Rosary Church, Duryea and was educated in Old Forge schools. He was employed and retired from the Luzerne Co. Court House, Building & Grounds Department.He was a U.S. Naval Veteran of World War II serving on board the U.S.S. Canberra.  He received the Victory Medal, Asiatic Pacific Medal & 6 stars, American Theater Medal and Philippine Liberation Medal.  He was a 30+ year member of VFW Post No. 1227, Duryea and a 30+ year member of the American Legion Post 585, Duryea where he served as a past commander.He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and brother who enjoyed fishing and hunting.He is survived by two sons, Richard of Dickson City and William, Jr., Olyphant; one sister, Betty Thornton of Old Forge and one brother, David, Buffalo, NY; 3 grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.He was preceded in death by his brother Henry Nelson.The funeral will be held at 9AM on Thursday from the Hudak-O’Shea Funeral Home, Inc., 115 Garfield Avenue, Olyphant.  Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 9:30AM at St. Patrick’s Church, Delaware Avenue, Olyphant.  The Reverend Phillip J. Sladicka, pastor, will officiate.  Entombment will follow at Fairview Memorial Park, Elmhurst.  Military Services will also be conducted by U.S. Naval Reserve Center, Avoca, American Legion Post 585 and VFW Post No. 1227.Friends may call on Tuesday from 6 to 9PM at the funeral home.  Christian wake services will be held during this time.