Thomas K. Craycraft

Thomas Karl Craycraft

Thomas K. Craycraft, born November 2, 1934 in Hamilton, OH to Robert L. and Coletta (Baumann) Craycraft, passed away on October 6, 2005 at his home in Dunnellon, FL.

Thomas graduated from Hamilton High School in 1952 and also attended the University of Cincinnati. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1952-1969 and the U.S. Navy Reserve from 1971-1980. During his time served he was on the U.S.S. Shenandoah and the U.S.S. Saratoga. Tom was involved in the funeral of General Douglas MacArthur. He was stationed at the U.S. Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, MD working in the Tissue Bank. During his time there he was honored to have worked with Guest Scientist, Charles Lindberg. He retired in 1980 as Chief Petty Officer.

Mr. Craycraft also worked for the University of Cincinnati Department of Surgery/Transplantation. During that time he also worked for the Shriners Burn Institute specializing in tissue banking and the Ohio Valley Life Center as a Profusionist and Coordinator of organ transplantation. He retired from the University of Cincinnati in 2000.

He is survived by his children, Anna (Richard) Apgar Sr., Robert (Samantha) Craycraft, grandchildren, Christina Apgar, Richard Apgar, Jr., Marissa Craycraft and Mariah Craycraft, his two close friends, Ed Robb and Keith Carmichael, numerous friends from U.C. Medical Center, Ohio Valley Life Center, Murphy's Pub of Clifton and the Moose Lodge's #2308 of Dunnellon, FL and #36 of Hamilton.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 22, 2005. The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m. at Avance Funeral Home, 4976 Winton Rd., Fairfield.. At 2:15 p.m. the Very Rev. James R. Leo will lead in prayer. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to: Make A Wish Foundation, 10260 Alliance Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45242.

Service

Memorial service Saturday, Oct. 22, 2005 1:00 - 2:15 p.m. Prayer service at 2:15 p.m.