February 23, 2021
Craig Eldon Anderson, long-time resident of Gold River, died suddenly on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at the age of 64 in his Victoria, BC apartment.
Born into an Air Force family in Winnipeg, his childhood brought many moves, the last of which brought him to the Comox Valley. It was here that Craig started to build a substantial friend base before relocating to Gold River to start his own family.
Craig filled his days raising his three children, volunteering alongside their activities, and serving his community in Gold River. After his employment ended with the closure of the Pulp & Paper mill, he went on to be the Financial Secretary of the Gold River Future's Society, proudly served on two terms as a Village Councillor, three terms as the Mayor of Gold River, Craig was Chair of the Comox Valley Regional District, and the inaugural Chair of the Strathcona Regional District.
He was a long-standing leader with Scouts Canada, assisting his sons in earning their Chief Scouting Awards, a self-proclaimed Master of the Custodial Arts, and the favoured local school bus driver - for his ability to keep up with the students and an Afroman rap. Craig was passionate about serving all members of his community.
After a devastating accident in 2016, and losing his sight as a result of his injuries, Craig relocated to Victoria, BC, and continued his athletic lifestyle any way possible. He was a daily figure at his local gym, swam & hiked whenever the opportunity was presented, and enjoyed time with his Dragonboat team for those with visual impairments - the team also shared his humour in their name, 'Outta Sight'. Every challenge presented to Craig was overcome with optimism.
Craig now joins his father, Ronald {aka Andy}, and son Joel in resting peacefully. He is survived by his mother, Marge {Jim}; children, Ron {Alecia}, Valerie {Dan}; sisters, Karen {Rick}, Christina {Gareth}, Coleen {Ernie}, Charlene {Chris} and a LARGE family of step-children, grandchildren, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews.
Craig will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family and years of community service. You could always count on Craig - and you could always count on him arriving in shorts with a smile.
With the present health situation, there is no plan for a formal civic remembrance.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local food bank.
Condolences may be offered at https://www.mccallgardens.com/obituaries/craig-eldon-anderson