In loving memory of

Craig Allen Havener
February 19, 1947 - April 30, 2021

Craig Allen Havener, 74, of Albert Lea, MN, was called to rest on April 30, 2021, at Methodist Campus, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN. He passed peacefully, surrounded by his family.

Craig was born February 19, 1947, in Sterling, Illinois, to John Kratz Havener and Mary Alice Janssen Havener. He graduated from St. John's Military Academy in Delafield, Wisconsin, and attended Rhodes College in Memphis, TN. Craig was an executive vice president for Thomas & Betts Corp., a global company based in Memphis, TN. He was responsible for acquisitions, procurement, transportation, travel, real estate, and facilities. Craig enjoyed challenges and took his talents to other entities, including Clarke Flooring and Amstore, Inc. Craig "Hammer" Havener focused his career on "never confusing efforts with results" and striving for success by listening to people and solving problems with integrity. Craig loved his dogs and was blessed to have many amazing canine companions over his lifetime. He was an active member of the community and the Albert Lea Rifle and Pistol Club's treasurer. In his free time, he enjoyed woodworking and cooking. Sir was also a beloved member of his granddaughter's weekly book club.

Craig is survived by his wife of 51 years, Peggy Ann Sheats Havener of Albert Lea, MN; his son John Donald Havener (Deonna); his daughter Marion Havener Hanson (Nils); his "adopted" sons William Corey Sharpe and Wallace Edwin Moore, III; and his adoring granddaughters Cori Ann Havener and Sloane Olive Hanson.

A private family service was held bedside, officiated by his brother-in-law, Father George Sabin Sheats (BettyAnn) of Auburn, ME. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Humane Society of Freeborn County at 101 James Avenue, Albert Lea, 56007. The family would like to thank the incredible Mayo Clinic doctors, nurses, and caregivers for their care and dedication to Craig. Craig was "the one and only" and will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Havener Family; to share a special memory or condolences, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com

Tributes

Gregory C Kontos wrote on Jun 8, 2021:

"Sorry to hear of Craig's passing but I rejoice in the memory of our shared youth. From 1950 thru 1962 we were partners in adventure. Our playgrounds were the cliffs of Sinnissippi, the old woods behind Woodlawn school, and the streams behind his house that led to the bayou . We camped together in boy scouts, we fished the bayou and enjoyed sledding the parks hills. And our youth ended and we grew into men apart from each other. I attended his graduation at St Johns academy. He looked great in his uniform. John and Doris were very proud of him. Before moving to Minnesota he and Peggy would spend a week in Maine on the ocean in October. We would get together with our cigars and drinks and rehash our youth. We both thought that the other's father was the best. I remember talk of opera in Italy at our last meeting. Craig was my best friend. To his family and friends, I am sorry for your loss. Gregory C. Kontos Sterling, IL now in Windham, ME"

Pat Mulso wrote on May 4, 2021:

"Peggy, our deepest sympathy for your loss. Pat & Arnie Mulso"