Walter Lincoln Craig

Walter Lincoln Craig, 95, was reunited with his wife of sixty-eight years, Thelma, in Heaven on February 20, 2022. He was surrounded by his three sons and loving family members at the time of his passing.

Walter was born on January 22, 1927 in Philadelphia, PA. He served honorably in the United States Navy during World War II and then married the love of his life, Thelma Irene Anderson, on December 14, 1947. Walter and Thelma then spent the majority of their married life living in Wildwood Crest, NJ and Cape May Court House, NJ where they raised three wonderful and loving sons, Walter Jr., James, and Robert.

Following Walter's honorable discharge from the United States Navy, he worked briefly for Westinghouse and then for the Atlantic Electric Company. He started as a ground hand before becoming an apprentice lineman working his way up into a management position. He retired as their Customer Service Supervisor after a distinguished forty-three year career serving not only the Atlantic Electric Company but also his community as he was always involved in restoring power during all times of natural disaster.

Walter was an avid golfer and a long-time member of the Wildwood Golf and Country Club. In addition to golfing, he enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was also a lifetime member of the Wildwood Crest Volunteer Fire Department serving as a lieutenant during his latter years. Even though Walter enjoyed many hobbies and volunteer activities, perhaps what he was best known for was the amazing husband and father he was to his family. Walter and his bride, Thelma, eventually relocated to Port Charlotte, FL where they continued to enjoy life, family, and retirement.

Walter is survived by his children; Walter Jr. and his wife Vicky, James and his significant other Julie, and Robert and his wife Margherita, with whom Walter resided with for the past five years. He is also survived by his eight loving grandchildren; Allyson Hirsch (Jonathan), Connor Craig (Samantha), Austin Craig, James Craig (Kelsey), Jessie Craig, Meghan Craig, Robert Craig Jr., and Kyle Vulgamore (Kristen) along with his four adoring great grandchildren Emerson and Addison Hirsch, Madeleine Craig, and Shea Vulgamore.

Walter was preceded in death by his wife Thelma, his mother Emily Craig and his aunts Alma and Florence Mackes.

Walter was a proud veteran, patriot and a true gentleman who was liked by all who knew him. A military burial is planned to be held at the Sarasota National Cemetery following the birth of his next great grandchild, Charlotte Craig. At this time his wife, Thelma, will be buried with him and a combined Celebration of Life is planned following the ceremony. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Tidewell Hospice.