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ANDERSON, CRAIG G. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Feb. 19, 1948, the only child of Robert and Eleanor. Died March 27 in Poway, CA, from complications caused by Hungtington's Disease. He was an "Army Brat," growing up in several states as well as attending junior high schools in Germany and France. His family eventually moved to Albuquerque where he graduated from Highland High School in 1966 and from UNM in 1970. In addition to his Bachelor of Science degree in psychology he was commissioned an Ensign in the United States Navy. He went to flight training in Pensacola, FL. He married Amy (McCormick) of Los Alamos in December 1971. The two moved to Meridian, MS, for completion of flight training. Upon receiving his "Wings of Gold" he was assigned to VF-126 at NAS Miramar, CA, flying the A4 jet. This was followed by a tour of duty in Beeville, TX, as an instructor pilot. Subsequently he served with squadrons VS-41 and VS-21 at NAS North Island, CA, flying S3 jets during deployments on the USS Kitty Hawk and the USS Constellation. He loved flying and the thrill of being launched from the carrier decks and landing safely aboard. He left active duty as a Commander and completed a full career in the Naval Reserve. He was proud to have served his country. He was hired as a pilot for Southwest Airlines in 1982. He flew for his beloved company for 25 years before being grounded due to his disease. He enjoyed everyone with whom he worked and he loved going to his "office." He felt he had an enormous family in his fellow SWA employees. But the best of 1982 was still to come with the birth of his son, Christopher. He was overjoyed, proud, excited, and scared to death about being a Dad. He said this was the most difficult but most wonderful job he ever had. Craig coached Little League, his favorites being the T-Ball teams. He was a Cub Scout Pack Master and actively participated in Boy Scouts with his son. He enjoyed playing tennis (poorly) and golf (or, as it often turned out, a great walk with friends while locating small white golf balls.) He enjoyed skiing and always had time for a game of Bridge. Craig was a frustrated by loyal fan of the Padres and Chargers and an enthusiastic supporter of college basketball and football. He loved SDSU basketball and rarely missed a game. He was also a Lobo fan, cheering for them except when they were playing against his Aztecs. He spent his days off with family and friends, wanting to participate as much as possible in the lives of his family. He was generous, gentle and kind, always willing to help a friend in need, whether with advice, assistance with projects, or financially. He had a warm, genuine smile for all he met and he maintained it and his wry sense of humor til the end. Craig was preceded in death by his mother, father and step-mother, Millie. He is survived by his wife Amy and son Christopher, both in the San Diego area; his McCormick family: Mom Margery (Donald); brothers Zachary and Egan, sister Jacqueline; nephew Tyler; nieces Lacey, Chelsea, Micaela; his aunt Dorothy. He never considered them "in-laws." They were his family. His dogs Mnm and Lucy miss him, too. He also leaves behind squadron- and crewmates, co-workers and friends, the members of the HD support group, all who made his life special. He is and will always be missed but he will be in our hearts He is back in his beloved skies, playing "alligator" and doing barrel rolls. Graveside services with full military honors will be April 19 at 10:00am, Miramar National Cemetery, San Diego, CA. Guests are encouraged to wear colorful clothing. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the Huntington's Disease Society of America (HDSA.org) or to a charity of their choice.
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