Patrick "Pat" Craft

Patrick Phillip "Pat" Craft, 60, of Mancelona passed away on Friday, May 2, 2025, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. He was born on August 20, 1964, in Petoskey, the son of Frank “Phil” and Patsy (Rathbun) Craft.

Pat grew up in Mancelona and stayed in the area through adulthood. As a teenager, he worked in the CETA program building some of the original boardwalks at Grass River Natural Area. He eventually became a machine maintenance and repairman; he worked at Eagle-Picher for over twenty years, DESTACO for several more, and Lanzen for the last eight. Known for his dedication, reliability, and quick wit, Pat brought both skill and laughter to the workplace. His good humor and steady presence left a lasting impression on all who worked with him.

Outside of work, Pat enjoyed camping, singing karaoke, and growing a vegetable garden—simple pleasures that reflected his love for the outdoors and for making everyday life joyful. His greatest love was his family, and he cherished any chance he got to spend with them. His most favorite memories were made at Camp Beaver where he would take all of his grandkids, nieces, and nephews on four-wheeler rides or do anything else to keep them entertained. Pat had a knack for mechanics which he picked up at a young age and was able to fix just about anything. He also built several go-carts over the years and even converted a riding lawnmower into a racing tractor.

He was quick with a joke, always ready with a smile, and his generosity continued even after his passing, as he chose to donate his organs to help others in need.

Pat is survived by his beloved wife of 25 years, Valerie Craft; three sons, Joshua Craft of Bellaire, Justin (Tiffany) Czaplicki of Mancelona, and Brandon Craft (Montana Somerville) of Mancelona; his mother, Patsy Wood of Mancelona; his brother, Chad (Jelena) Craft of Mancelona; four sisters, Deborah Sparks of Mancelona, Cassie Craft (Manuel Sr.) of Mancelona, Lorraine (Randy) Logan of Tennessee, and Sandy (Paul) Wojcik of Mancelona; three grandchildren, Joshua Phillip Craft II, Ryleigh Ann Craft, and Aiden Grody; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father; and two brothers, Phillip Craft and Christopher Craft.

A celebration of Pat's life will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at Camp Beaver on the corner of M-66 and Bundy Road in Mancelona.

Arrangements are in the care of the Mancelona Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com