Craig Heilman

Of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at the age of 69 years old, went to be with Jesus on the 18^th of September, 2022, surrounded by his wife and children in the comfort of his home. He had the grit and toughness of a true mountain man to battle colon cancer and its treatment for three years without allowing it to change who he was. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jennifer, and his 14 children, PeggySue (Joseph), Lori (Joseph), Amanda (James), Kristofor (Brittany), Joni (Jonathan), Paul (Ashley), Zachary (Jennifer), Julianne, Jaclyn, Jacob, Susanne, Levi (Katie), Craig, and Jennifer (Jacob).

He was a loving grandfather to 16 grandchildren, Arin, Joseph, Madelyn, Taylor, Michael, Wyatt, Matthew, Isabell, Ariel, Lillian, Scarlett, Rebecca, Arden, Eliana, Sarah, and Hunter.

He was a lifelong Christian, avid outdoorsman, and musician. He proclaimed his faith through his many passions and hobbies. His legacy will live on through all who were taught by him and all who shared his passions: music, hunting, fishing, gardening, beekeeping, leather crafting, wood working, calligraphy, and ice hockey, to name a few. His love of nature, wild life, and the Native American culture were expressions of his love for his Creator. He shared the love of Jesus and the free gift of salvation with anyone he met. He loved his family, especially his grandchildren and was happiest when they were sharing food and playing music together.  

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, and survived by his five brothers and three sisters.

A memorial service will be held in his honor on Saturday, October 1^st, 2022, at Calvary Chapel of Philadelphia. Friends are welcome to join Craig’s family beginning at 2:30 pm, with a service beginning at 4:00 pm.