Paul M. Craft

Paul M. Craft, 87, of Tidioute, PA, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2023 at the Rouse Home in Youngsville, PA, with his daughter, Kate, by his side.

Paul was born on December 2, 1935, to Esther and Charles Craft and was the youngest of 4 brothers.

Paul grew up in Endeavor and Tidioute areas and graduated from Tidioute High School where he met the love of his life, Karen McGraw. After graduation, he joined the Marines and upon his return home, he was employed by the National Forge in Irvine, PA.

Paul and Karen were married on October 27, 1957, at the Triumph Community Church and remained devoted to each other for 63 years. They settled in Tidioute and raised their family of 5 children. After retirement, Paul and Karen split their time between Tidioute and Florida where they created lasting memories and friendships.

Paul was also fiercely devoted to his family and enjoyed every moment he spent with them camping, traveling, hunting, fishing, mending broken hearts and broken things. He was always ready with the right words of advice or his bag of tools and could build or fix just about anything. He made the best pancakes and could surprise you with a game of “ Got You Last” with that mischievous twinkle in his eye. He enjoyed being with his grandchildren and had a way of making each one feel special. He was a generous man and gave his time and energy to several community projects, such as the construction of the local fire department community hall, his involvement with the Pennsylvania State Fishing Tournament and the Allegheny Mountain Championship Rodeo. He was the past Fire Chief and enjoyed his time spent as a member of the Lion’s Club and Masons and he was a member of the United Methodist Church.

Paul was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Karen; his precious Dachshund, Chloe; his parents, Ester and Charles and 3 brothers, Nathaniel, Charles and Raymond.

He is survived by his children, Timothy (Mona), Michael (April), Lisa (Timothy) Spulecki, David (Denise) and Kathryn; his 10 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; 2 step-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service is being planned by the family to be announced at a later date.

Memorial Donations may be made to the Swedish Union Church, in care of Sue Shields, Treasurer, 36 Swede Road, Tidioute, PA 16351. 

Condolences to the family may be made at nelsonfuneralhome.net.

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