Craig Reukauf (March 30, 1947 - July 05, 2019)

In loving memory of
Craig Reukauf
  • March 30, 1947
  • -
  • July 05, 2019

  • Obituary
  • Sign Tribute Wall
  • Send an E-Card
  • Light a Candle
  • Send Flowers
  • Photos

Obituary

Craig A Reukauf, age 72, of New Smyrna Beach was stricken unexpectedly Friday.

Born on March 30, 1947 in Buffalo, he was the son of the late Betty and Roy Reukauf. Craig was a graduate of Simmons School of Embalming in Syracuse and became a licensed funeral director in 1966. In 1967, he became a licensed real estate agent. While serving his internship in Queens, he met and married the love of his life, Kathleen Wey in June 1968.

 

They moved to Lake Luzerne in 1970 where he joined the Brewer Funeral Home serving as a funeral director and owner until 1999 when he sold the business. He and Kathy raised four children. In addition to his duties at the funeral home, prior to the implementation of the 911 emergency system, he also handled all the emergency calls for Luzerne, Hadley and the town of Day twenty four hours a day. He was a member of the NYS Funeral Directors Association, as well as the Adirondack Funeral Directors Association. Craig was active in the community, serving as Scout Leader, health insurance plan administrator for the Chamber of Commerce, Co-Chairman for the Fall Festival, volunteer at Hadley-Luzerne Central School, President of the Luzerne Cemetery Association and many other church and town committees. He extended himself to everyone he met and told everyone “call me anytime if you need anything.”

 

He worked as a real estate agent since 1967 and thoroughly enjoyed it, often simply sitting down and advising folks. He and his wife Kathy owned and managed several multi-family residences and built several homes in the area. Since 2003 they spent most of the year in New Smyrna Beach where he served as President of the board of their condominium association and helped manage the condo complex. Known as the “Mayor” of the complex he was involved in all aspects of the daily operation and upkeep of the grounds. It was often said of him “Does he ever sit down?” He cared for each and every unit and knew each of the families, whether they were owners or renters. With joy in his heart, he carried their luggage, took out their garbage, trips to the airport and unexpected trips to the hospital day or night. He frequently had an over-full van of grandkids or seniors going on various adventures and had created many memories with all ages playing cards around the kitchen table. He gave his whole self to everyone.

 

It was on the beach in New Smyrna that he discovered his love of fishing. It was a busy and wonderful time. Summers were spent in Lake Luzerne with all the children and grandchildren and many family members until 2017 when they sold their home and spent all 12 months enjoying their beloved Florida. In addition to owning their condo at Win-San, they spent two years living at the Mediterranean condo where he jumped right in and worked on many projects. In addition to their time investing in their condo communities, Craig and Kathy were active participants in their church, as well as serving the homeless from the soup kitchen.

After much consideration, they decided to sell their condo on the beach and build a new beautiful home in a 55 community in Deland. Together they designed and planned for their home, currently under construction. They had very recently met dozens of new friends and were excited to begin this new phase of life full of community and support. The day before Craig passed, he had been riding his bike and attended a joyous 4th of July party.

 

Craig will always be remembered for his outrageous generosity, passion for life, loyalty, attention to detail, risk-taking, his immense love of his family and a one-of-a-kind sense of humor. To know him is to know his love for the Lord and he truly worked every day to be the hands and feet of Jesus. His reach was further than any of us will ever know. Our hearts have a huge hole in them but we know he is now dancing at the feet of Jesus and singing His praises in that unmistakably, distinct off-key voice.

 

Survivors besides his wife 51 years include one son, Thomas and his wife Kelly Reukauf (Crowley) of Dunnedin, FL, three daughters Beth and her husband Mark Tooker of Saratoga Springs, NY, Amy and her husband Jay Oppenheim of Shrewsbury, MA and Sarah and her husband Wes Ion of Hamburg, NY, ten precious grandchildren, Emma and Riley Reukauf, Aidan, Madeline, Brady and Dawson Tooker, Keegan (wife Priska) and Tate Oppenheim, Parker and Zak Ion, two great-grandchildren Thalia and Kyren Oppenheim, one brother, Daniel Reukauf and his wife Nancy of Suffolk, VA, two sisters, Jane Reukauf of Orchard Park, NY and Mary Beth and her husband Halsey Van Lew of West Falls, NY, several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

 

Funeral services will be conducted 4pm Wednesday, July 10th at Edgewater Alliance Church. The family will begin receiving friends at 2pm at the church. Committal service will be Thursday 10am at DeLand Memorial Gardens.

 

Donations to Edgewater Alliance Church for missions.

 

 

 

 

 


Service

Location:
Edgewaer Alliance Church

Date & Time:
July 10, 2019 at 8:00 PM



Visitation

Times:
July 10, 2019
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM



Location:
Edgewater Alliance church


Send flowers to the family to show you care. Order Now

Tribute Wall

Leave a reply



Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  1. Adrienne Prosser says:
    10 Jul 2019
    May you find the comfort in the knowledge that many are holding you in their hearts today and remembering along with you.

  2. Amanda (Geldard) Kohler says:
    10 Jul 2019
    My heart breaks for you all and I can’t imagine how difficult this time is for you. Your family has always been an inspiration as it’s clear how much you love and support each other. Wishing you strength and sending you love and prayers.

  3. Bob and Sharon Larkins lit a candle:
    09 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 9, 2019 at 7:17:52 AM

  4. Loren and Carol Gage says:
    09 Jul 2019
    Kathy and family, we are richly blessed to be able to have been called a friend by Craig. And our prayers are raised to our heavenly father for you Kathy and your wonderful family. May God put his loving arms around you in your sorrowful times. And His love forever flood your soul. In Jesus' loving name, Loren and Carol Gage

  5. Pistorio Family lit a candle:
    08 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 8, 2019 at 7:52:12 PM

  6. Bob and Grace Russo lit a candle:
    08 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 8, 2019 at 7:14:57 PM

  7. Jim Suplee says:
    08 Jul 2019
    Dan, my sincere condolences in regard to your brother Craig I never had the pleasure to meet him, but the stories you shared with me defined him as a very gentle, caring person whose goal in life was to help people particularly the elderly. It's extremely sad Craig died at such a young age. Dan, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

  8. Steve and Dee Graham lit a candle:
    08 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 8, 2019 at 7:17:34 PM

  9. Kate and Rob Rosenberg lit a candle:
    08 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 8, 2019 at 7:48:23 PM

  10. Patricia Novotarski lit a candle:
    08 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 8, 2019 at 7:54:34 AM

  11. Pat Lawrensen lit a candle:
    08 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 8, 2019 at 7:19:11 AM

  12. Maryanne V Tuite says:
    08 Jul 2019
    Dearest Kathy, Tommy, Beth, Amy, Sarah and families,
    Our sincerest condolences on the great loss of Craig - beautiful human being, beloved husband and great father and grandfather. His extended love to friends was special and his humor priceless! I share your grief and sadness even as we know he is with the Lord.
    Know you are in my prayers during these difficult days and beyond as you adjust to a new world empty of such a beautiful presence - Craig!
    With much love,
    Carolynn and Maryanne Tuite

  13. Kirsten & Mark Raccuia lit a candle:
    08 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 8, 2019 at 7:47:30 AM

  14. Rachel Whalen (Aldrich) lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:11:31 PM

  15. Janice and George Picardo lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:54:01 PM

  16. Carolyn Dingman says:
    07 Jul 2019
    So very sorry to hear of your loss, he was a great man. My prayers are with you, Kathy and your kids.

  17. Shellie & Richie Boudreau lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:29:16 PM

  18. Jeff and Ellen Becker lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:13:21 PM

  19. Rosa & Carlos Morales lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:01:29 PM

  20. Matt, Susan & Thomas Lambert lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:18:33 PM

  21. Karen Geldard says:
    07 Jul 2019
    Our deepest sympathies to the Reukauf family. We are so blessed to have had him in our lives. His zest for life was so evident every time we saw him. He was ever optimistic and was always quick to give thanks to the Lord for all his good fortunes in life. His presence will be greatly missed but his children have all inherited the same optimism, generosity and compassion as their parents. A big piece of him will be carried on through them. Rest In Peace Craig you served Him well.may we all carry a piece of you in remembrance. Love and prayers - Tom and Karen Geldard

  22. Ryan and Grace Lee and Family lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:30:06 PM

  23. Jimmy and Rosie Lee and Family lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:27:59 PM

  24. Kelly Marple lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:03:09 AM

  25. Ron and Roxanne White says:
    07 Jul 2019
    So sorry to hear this. He will certainly be missed by all who knew him. Sending hugs to you all.

  26. Bonnie Burroughs Howard lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:14:39 AM

  27. Amy Fazio lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:33:42 AM

  28. Amy Fazio lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:32:55 AM

  29. Cindy (Cowles) Thoman lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:25:12 AM

  30. Pat and Bob Kelliher lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:00:54 AM

  31. Janine Gardner says:
    07 Jul 2019
    I am so very sorry for your loss. It was news I hadn’t expected for years to come. Craig and Kathy were a large influence during my formative years. He will be greatly missed by many.

  32. McCullough lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:30:08 AM

  33. Chickie Meyer and family lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:11:09 AM

  34. Kathy Meyer Gangaware says:
    07 Jul 2019
    My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I fondly remember babysitting and caring for the kids. May you all find peace on your hearts and fondly remember the wonderful times you shared.

  35. Greg and Linda McClellan lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:04:46 AM

  36. Marco Pollastri and Family lit a candle:
    07 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 7, 2019 at 7:09:30 AM

  37. Allan Brotman lit a candle:
    06 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 6, 2019 at 7:30:51 PM

  38. Allan Brotman lit a candle:
    06 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 6, 2019 at 7:25:45 PM

  39. Mary Hawk and fam lit a candle:
    06 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 6, 2019 at 7:21:55 PM

  40. Michael & BethAnne Kinney lit a candle:
    06 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 6, 2019 at 7:34:18 PM

  41. Xanath Bailey says:
    06 Jul 2019
    Our heartfelt condolences to you all upon the passing of your wonderful husband, father, and grandfather.
    Xanath and Harry Bailey
    Lake Luzerne, NY

  42. Barb & Herb Ahting lit a candle:
    06 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 6, 2019 at 7:35:49 PM

  43. Nicole and Madigan Carner lit a candle:
    06 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 6, 2019 at 7:11:22 PM

  44. John & Alicia Reukauf says:
    06 Jul 2019
    Our thoughts and prayers

  45. Dianne Chandler Lundgren says:
    06 Jul 2019
    Craig was such a caring and wonderful person. He was so giving to our community of Lake Luzerne through the many, many years. My heartfelt condolences to Kathy and all of the children and grandchildren. Such a sweet and precious soul.

  46. The Newell Family lit a candle:
    06 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 6, 2019 at 7:07:50 PM

  47. Rose E Farr says:
    06 Jul 2019
    So sorry for your loss. Craig was a wonderful caring man

  48. Dan & Nancy Reukauf lit a candle:
    06 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 6, 2019 at 7:45:22 PM

  49. Christine Blakely says:
    06 Jul 2019
    I am so, so sorry for your loss. I know your pain and wish there was something I could say or do to help. But know you are all in my prayers!!!

  50. Rowland and Carol Ames lit a candle:
    06 Jul 2019
    Lit since July 6, 2019 at 7:00:33 PM

Send an E-Card

Please select an e-card

    Required fields are marked *
     

    Note: The code below resets with every submit of the form
    captcha