OBITUARIES

We remember and celebrate the life of Ronald William Craig. Ron was born on March 7, 1955, in Joplin, and passed away at the age of 71 on Aug. 3, 2026.

Ron was a remarkable man, embodying the qualities of ambition, resilience, dedication and reliability that were apparent in every aspect of his life. Ron was dedicated to his family farming business. His love for the land was surpassed only by his love for his family. He was a man who lived by the words of John Wayne, “Life is tough, but it is tougher if you are lazy!”

His dedication extended well beyond the farm. Ron’s greatest accomplishment and pride were his wife, children and grandchildren. He could often be found at sporting events, cheering them on. If he was not found there, you would find him tending to his garden.

Preceding Ron in death were his father, Richard Craig; his mother, Donna Garritson Craig; and his sister, Susie Kean. Ron is survived by his wife, Dawn Craig. They were married on Jan. 7, 2000. Also surviving are his son, Randy Craig and wife Joni; daughter, Angie Shuster and husband Mike; daughter, Amber Hulstine and husband Nathan; son, Austin Craig; grandchildren, Kaylyn Shuster, Allie Shuster, Brock Hulstine and Bentley Craig; his sister, Laurie Hensley; brother, Rick Craig; and many nieces and nephews.

Services for Ron will be held at Simpson Funeral Home. Visitation will be at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026, and the funeral will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 7, 2026. Interment will be at Pleasant Hill Cemetery.