Craig Bear,

WAUKESHA-Craig Edward Bear, Sr. was born to eternal life on Saturday, April 4, 2009 at his home in Waukesha at the age of 60. He is survived by his loving wife Mary (nee Wachowitz), his children Betsy (Tim Hoff) Bear, Kristin Bear and Craig (Heather) Bear, Jr., grandchildren Jaryn Isabel, Natalie Nicole and Nessa Roisin.  He is further survived by his brother Ted (Sue) Bear, of Hot Springs Village Arkansas, sister in law Jill (Paul Hill) Collins, cousins Kathy Vick, Joe Vick and Stacy Vick, uncle Stan Piza, niece Wendy (Erik) Bear-Vandermause, nephews Noah (Jenny) Collins, Matt Collins, great nieces and nephews; Quinn Collins, Ethan Craig and Colin Vandermause, Lila, Damian and Violet Collins and countless loving friends.  Craig was preceded in death by his parents George Warren and Janet Isabel Bear, in-laws Walter J and Elsie Lloyd Wachowitz Jr., and nephew John W Collins. Born in Loves Park, Illinois, Craig’s family moved to Waukesha around 1956.  Craig attended Hawthorne Elementary School and Waukesha High School, now known as Waukesha South.  Craig also attended the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse. Craig was the President of Alloy Products, Corp, where he had worked since the age of 18. Craig was a faithful employee at Alloy Products Corp. for 40 years and worked numerous positions over the years.  In 1994 Alloy Products Corp. appointed Craig President and Chairman of the Board.  Craig was not only a respected boss, but also a friend to all employees at Alloy Products Corp. Craig and Mary were married for 40 years and had been together since their freshman year in high school. CBear loved playing golf with his family and friends; and especially loved to play with JR.  He enjoyed his Sunday matches with Eric Holm and the boys.  He loved playing poker in Vegas and had a standing reservation at Caesar’s Palace every fall with his close friend, Fred “Fritzer” Thuemling.  An athlete his entire life, he loved playing basketball, football, and always enjoyed a good game of racquetball with the guys at the YMCA Craig was elated when he became Papa Bear to his grandchildren, JBomb, Oui, and Hammy, and spent many happy times with them.  Craig enjoyed his time with his dogs Cinnamon, Lucky and Bailey.  The three golden retrievers were his “girls” and he loved throwing the Frisbee for Lucky, and taking them all for long walks around Buchner park. The ‘Betty Ford’ group became a favorite endeavor for Craig and Mary.  The “Neighbor’s” crew and the “Convertible Club” took CBear and Mary on adventures across the country and to Mexico for sun and fun.  Holidays were a special time for Craig and his decorations in his home and yard exuded many "ooh’s and ahh’s" from all who knew him. Craig had a wonderful sense of humor and was a great storyteller.  He was a dear friend to many, and will be missed by all. The family would like to extend their gratitude to all Town of Waukesha Sheriff, fire and rescue employees as well as the staff at Waukesha Memorial Hospital for their help and kindness. Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2009 from 4:00PM until 9:00PM at the Randle-Dable Funeral Home, 1110 S. Grand Avenue, Waukesha, WI 53186. A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, April 10, 2009 at 10:00AM at the funeral home.  Golf attire is requested.  In lieu of flowers, memorials in Craig’s name are appreciated to HAWS, 701 Northview Rd., Waukesha 53186 or the Golden Retriever Rescue of WI, Attn:  Treasurer, 310 N. 11th St. Cornell, WI  54732. For further information, please call the Randle-Dable Funeral, Cremation and Preplanning services at 262-547-4035 or go to www.waukeshafunerals.com for directions or to leave an online tribute.   “No Matter Where You Go – There You Are”