Mabel Craig obituary

SONORA — Mabel Ruth Craig, 86, of Sonora, died on June 21 at her home, Skyline Place.

Mabel was born and raised in Atascadero. She married Harold Tonne on Aug. 3, 1941, and celebrated life together for 28 years before Harold passed on July 3, 1969.

They lived in Palm Springs, where they raised two children, Gloria Jean and Harold Louis “Teddy.” Mabel was a day care provider and foster parent for at least 50 different children, enriching their lives with love, discipline and a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Together with Harold and another family, they were the founding members of Our Savior’s Church where they were active and centered their lives.

Mabel married Richard “Dick” Craig Sr. on June 6, 1970, and they enjoyed 36 years together.

Mabel accepted, loved and cared for a new stepson, Richard Jr. While in Palm Springs Mabel and Dick were also active members of Our Saviors Church.

Mabel and Dick moved to Atascadero in 1980 to take care of her mother and to establish a new life on the family farm. Mabel’s love for animals was obvious as she collected a diverse menagerie including chickens, rabbits, peacocks, pheasants, turkeys, Emus, goats, pot belly pigs, cats, dogs, horses and more.

She took in all sorts of strays — animals and kids — she loved them all. In Atascadero, Mabel and Dick became active members of the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer. They added to their family by adopting Mabel Renee. Mabel lost Dick on May 6, 2006.

With failing health, Mabel moved to Sonora to be near her daughter, Gloria, and moved into Skyline Place where she had many friends and enjoyed many activities there.

She became a member of St. Matthew Lutheran church where she was found every Sunday sitting in a front pew worshipping the Lord.

Mabel is survived by four children and their spouses; eight grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren and one great-great grand child.

Her family and friends will miss her, but they all have a rich treasure of great memories and appreciate what a blessing she was to all of them.



For the complete article see the 06-27-2012 issue.

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