It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Craig Van Dieten on July 26, 2024. Craig died suddenly but peacefully in his home in Ridgeville, Ontario, Canada. Craig was deeply loved by his family and friends. He grew up and spent most of his life in the Pelham area, managing and operating the family farm. As a young man, Craig had a strong sense of adventure, and he backpacked through Europe and travelled across Canada before starting his family. He was a lover of movies, music, and enjoyed sharing his insights and knowledge about everything from politics to home repairs.
Craig was a loving, kind and generous man. He was renowned for his bear-like hugs, his open, optimistic view of life and his joy of golf. He cherished his daughters, his family and his friends and he was deeply protective of all he loved. He is survived by his daughters Ashlee Van Dieten, Nicole (Jordon) Bauman, He will be deeply missed by his brother, sisters, nieces, nephews, great nephews, and friends.
We are extremely grateful to his friends who have always been a source of support and happiness to Craig. We also want to thank his neighbors and the first responders who provided us with compassionate and helpful assistance when he died.
Please join family and friends in celebrating the life of
CRAIG VAN DIETEN
February 7, 1961-July 26, 2024
on Sunday, August 18, 2024 (1-4 PM)
Old Pelham Town Hall, 491 Canboro Rd., Pelham, ON, L0S 1C0
We would love for you to join us and welcome you to share your stories and favorite memories of Craig. If you would like to attend virtually or have any questions, please contact Marilyn at mvandieten@gmail.com
Craig felt strongly about helping others in need. Memorial donations to Pelham Cares https://pelhamcares.org/ would be appreciated by the family.
Bruce, Marilyn, Carol and families…we were so very sad to hear this unfortunate news about Craig. Our deepest condolences. We know you’ll have many memories to keep him alive in your hearts!!!
I am so very sorry to hear of Craig’s passing. He was such a dear friend and I will miss him terribly. I feel blessed to have had Craig in my life and enjoyed our visits, outings and his beautiful spirit. Such a true friend. All my love, Jen Scott xoxo
My condolences to the family I knew Craig from long ago we all back then had some great fun times he was a decent man I have long since moved from the area but the memories intact I find it hard to believe he is gone so sorry to hear of his passing.
To Bruce, Marilyn,and Carol, my sincere condoleance in the loss of Graig,
He will be welcomed with open arms by Mom and Dad,
Here we say he is gone,! On the other side they shout,,,,here he comes ,
My thoughts are with you,,,,,
Mrs V,,,,,,,Frances Hernder-Vanderzandeh
Dear Ashlee & Nikki, I had the privilege of meeting your father twice. His kindness and warmth really stood out. He had a special way of making everyone around him feel like a million bucks. He made all of us laugh at the dinner table and had a wonderful gift for bringing people together. He will be deeply missed by everyone who had the joy of knowing him. My condolences go out to you and to the Van Dieten family during this difficult time.
Many memories came to me as I read Craig’s Obituary this morning. Craig was a big part of the Fenwick gang growing up. Craig always had a smile and was a tall gentle soul. May Craig Rest in Peace. My deepest sympathies to all of his family and to all of his friends. I am truly sure that there will be a few at the Gates waiting to welcome you!! Sincerely Tanya Bird
Craig Played basketball on our local team, “Pelham Panthers” pre high school out of Pelham High School. he was a lefy and always played his heart out. I remember one incident in Welland during a game when Craig went out of his way to encourage an injured player from the other team He was a good player and a kind person. This incident was told to me by that player’s mother with apreciation. God rest you Craig.
Condolences from the Gibson family. I always enjoyed the golf stag night golf with Craig and some mutual friends.
My heart goes out to Nicole and Ashlee. Craig loved his daughters so much. This is just so sad. My love to the girls and to Craig’s siblings, Bruce, Marilyn and Carol.
We both were very shocked & saddened by Craig’s sudden passing. He was such an amazing person with the biggest personality & infectious smile.. he could make friends easily wherever he went!! He will be deeply missed by all !!! We send our deepest condolences to his family & many friends!!
Craig’s kind spirit, warm heart, and big hugs will be cherished and remembered forever. He will be missed dearly. Love Tante Thea, Uncle Bill, Roy & Patti, Frank & Lise, Rich & Andrea, Michelle & Pete xoxoxo…
Craig will be truly missed by his family and friends. I loved talking to him about almost everything under the sun. Most of all was his smile, it was enormous and real. Craig and his family are special to me. I love them all. Rest in Peace .
Jason and I were so sorry to hear of the loss of your brother, Marilyn. We send our sincere condolences to you all. May your close family bonds and good memories sustain you all in this trying time. xoxo
Dear Nicole, Ashlee; Ruth and I are so sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad. He was a true friend and neighbor. Living next door for almost 30 years gave us the wonderful opportunity of friendship with Craig. He towed our car from the ditch after an ice storm when I was called into work early. Another time he phoned us in the night at about 1am to see if we were ok when he saw flash lights moving around our yard . That night we were out in the pasture until after midnight with flashlights trying to round up the horses to get them in the barn during a heavy wind storm. Your Dad was always just a phone call away for any help. Craig will be truly missed. Unfortunately we are away at a rental cottage that week otherwise we would be at Pelham Old Town Hall to see you. Our thoughts are with you. God Bless.
Best Regards Paul & Ruth
Marilyn and family… our sincere condolences with the recent passing of your beloved brother Craig. As young kids visiting your parents farm with our family (Joop n Ada Schouten) we met Craig several times and he was always “up to something” … it left us in awe and I still remember your moms expression “Oh Craig” with a heartfelt smile and all the love in her heart for her boy. May he RIP
Sincerely Tim n MaryAnn (Schouten) Gill
Bruce, Marilyn and Carol, my Condolences to you all in the passing of your brother , Craig. I remember as a child my parents visiting with your parents and Craig walking into the room, at that time he wore glasses and he had a smile that warmed your heart, it’s truly incredible that way smile was so infectious and resonated with so many people.
Surely his Smile and Infectious personality will be missed but never forgotten by all those dear to him and so his loving memory will always be with you .
God Bless You All and May Your Memories Bring You Comfort…..With Condolences Jacki Schouten
Fortunately was able to touch base with Craig on his recent birthday, and before that, while on a visit to his parent’s final resting place down the road. Craig was a beloved uncle and godparent to my son Andrew, and a constant friend to me. He was a one-of-a-kind character, laid back, non-judgmental, and will be missed. Sending deepest condolences to the entire Van Dieten family, and especially to Ashlee and Nicole, whom he was so proud of and took such delight in the gift of being their dad. Rest in peace buddy.