Craig Free was killed on Monday, June 2, 2025 while working for the railroad, doing a job he loved.

Workplace fatalities are a tragic reality and a solemn risk of many jobs that we all acknowledge. However, it strikes a profoundly different chord when it hits so close to home. It reminds us that behind the numbers and the news reports are real people with families, friends and co-workers who are left devastated.

Craig leaves behind his partner of 27 years, Hilary and their three children, daughter Brianne (Luke) who gave him the granddaughter he adored, Devon, son Robert, and daughter Hannah (Seth), He also leaves behind his mother, Marianne (nee Vernon) and his two younger brothers, Ryan and Brett (Dana) with his niece Sophia and nephew Tyson, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Craig was known for his strong, steady work ethic – the kind that is rarely seen today as well as being an inclusive and jovial community builder. To Craig, there were no strangers, everyone was a friend. He was always the first to offer you a helping hand when needed whether he knew you or not, the first to call when tragedy hit, and the first neighbour to offer you a cold beer in welcome when you were moving in next door.

His generosity and kindness was not limited to humans. He would never admit it in public, but his kind and compassionate soul and love of animals lead to him opening his home to countless rescued dogs, stray cats, rescued horses and donkeys.

At his core, his family, children and granddaughter were his world, and he, in turn, was our rock.

Craig, we promise you that your spirit and legacy of being one of the funniest, kindest and caring men will continue to live on in our hearts and in the stories we share.

A “come as you are” visitation will be held at the Port Perry United Church, 294 Queen Street in Port Perry on Friday, June 13th from 1 – 4 p.m. Memories, photos and condolences may be shared at www.waggfuneralhome.com