Craig D. Yaple
January 27, 1950 – December 19, 2023
A memorial will held next summer on his beloved North Lake. Memorial contributions may be given to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation or Centrica Care Navigators, in c/o the funeral home.
Obituary
Age 73, passed away late Tuesday night, December 19, 2023. Craig was born in Kalamazoo on January 27, 1950, the son of Gerald and Donna (Benzenberg) Yaple. He was married to Linda Zimmerman who survives him. Craig was a graduate of Western Michigan University. He worked for many years at the Kalamazoo Gazette, where he met Linda. Craig was a home remodeling specialist and was owner of Homeowner’s Helper. He found great satisfaction in helping people with home maintenance issues. Craig retired during the pandemic, but remained active in many other ways until he became ill. Nothing gave him more joy than being with his family and his friends on North Lake. Besides his wife, Craig is survived by his son, Ryan Yaple of Gobles; granddaughter, MacKenzie Pennell; sisters in law Fran (Al) Bruss and Barbara Hamming; nieces and nephews; and many, many friends. Craig was preceded in death by his father; and his mother, Donna Yowler; sister in law, Sue Zimmerman.
Craig was a icon, he was widely admired for his great influence on North lake, whenever you wanted Answers he was the one to ask. I moved to northlake in 1996,I met Craig,& Lyn& Ryan. He was the homeowners helper, I hired him to put new windows , siding on the front of my home, other things that needed fixing, he always did a great job, thank you Craig for helping me. You will be missed. My sincere condolences to Lyn & Ryan.
Dear Lin and Ryan – I am so very sorry. I know you are both heartbroken. He was such just a good guy all the way around. Funny, helpful and calm. You two take care of yourselves and each other as you approach this next chapter in your life. Love you both and, as always, call anytime. Kay