The Wittenberg community is mourning the passing of James “Hugger” Dell Craig, who died peacefully on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at Autumn Lane in Birnamwood under the care of LeRoyer Hospice. He was 79 years old. Jim’s departure has left family, friends, and loved ones in sorrow, as they remember a man whose life was marked by kindness, music, and devotion to those he cherished.
Born on October 19, 1946, in New London, Wisconsin, Jim was the son of Edward and Irene Orpha (Button) Craig. He grew up in Royalton with his siblings, spending countless hours enjoying the local river with his sisters Jan and Jill. He graduated from Tomorrow River High School in 1964, beginning a journey that would include years of hard work, service, and community involvement.
Jim spent much of his adult life working as a cook in area restaurants before dedicating 21 years of service as a Nursing Assistant at the Wisconsin Veterans Home, retiring in 2001. His compassion and dedication to caring for others defined his professional life. After retirement, he moved to Wittenberg, living close to his sister Jan, where he continued to enjoy the simple pleasures of community and family.
Music was one of Jim’s greatest passions. Before suffering a stroke in 2009, he was an avid singer, performing at weddings and local events, and was a longtime member of the Waupaca Community Chorus. Even after his stroke, his love for music endured—he enjoyed concerts, playing piano, and taking violin lessons. He also found joy in fishing, gardening, sewing for charity, volunteering, and competing in floral arranging, reflecting his creativity and generous spirit.
Jim is survived by his sisters Jan (Tom) Jones and Jill (Phillip) Brown; sister‑in‑law Pat Craig; special niece Sharon Rustad; and several nieces, nephews, great‑nieces, and great‑nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings Joan (Larry) Dumbleton and Jock Craig, and his niece and nephew Erika Jones and Jacob Craig. A visitation will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home in Wittenberg, followed by a short service and luncheon. Private burial will take place at Crystal Lake Cemetery in Waupaca County. Jim will be remembered for his music, his humor, and the gentle way he touched the lives of those around him.