Craig Rothenberger, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and legendary basketball coach, passed away peacefully after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer at the age of 78 on May 28, 2025.
While his coaching achievements were outstanding, his greatest legacy lies in his devotion to his family, especially his wife, Arlene Rothenberger, and their three children.
Craig Rothenberger’s Wife, Arlene Call Rothenberger, Both Attended Nestucca High School
They married in March 1969, embarking on a 56-year journey filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams.
Arlene was Craig’s rock, supporting him through his demanding coaching career while raising their three children: sons Bart and Ty, and daughter Aimee.
Arlene, a woman of grace and strength, shared Craig’s passion for community and family.
Together, they created a warm home in Junction City, Oregon, where they welcomed countless friends, athletes, and neighbors.
Their relationship was a model of mutual respect and uncompromising commitment, inspiring those around them.
Craig and Arlene raised three wonderful children who carry forward their father’s legacy.
Their daughter, Aimee Corey, and sons, Bart and Ty Rothenberger, were the heart of Craig’s world.
He was also a doting grandfather to six grandchildren, who brought him tremendous joy in his later years.
Bart Rothenberger followed in his father’s footsteps, becoming the athletic director and basketball coach at Junction City High School.
In 2024, Bart guided the Tigers to the Class 4A state title game, evidence of the leadership and perseverance lessons he learned from his father.
Ty Rothenberger, meanwhile, created his own path as a branch manager at Eureka Mortgage Planning, representing Craig’s values of hard work and virtue.
Aimee, a loving mother of two boys and community member, shares her father’s warmth and dedication to family.
Craig’s family was his greatest pride. Whether cheering at his games or sharing quiet moments at home, he cherished every second with Arlene and their children and grandchildren.
His grandchildren’s laughter filled his heart, and he loved watching them grow into their own.
A Legendary Career Born From Humble Beginnings
Born on June 1, 1947, to Thelma and Max Rothenberger in Cloversale, Oregon, Craig grew up alongside his siblings, sister Karen, and brothers Neal and Gray.
He graduated from Nestucca High School in 1965 and later earned a degree in Physical Education and Health from Western Oregon University in 1969.
Craig’s coaching career began at Tillamook Catholic High School, where he taught chemistry, biology, and general science while coaching from 1969 to 1973.
He returned to his alma mater, Nestucca High School, where he coached from 1973 to 1980.
In 1980, he joined the Junction City School District as an athletic director and basketball coach, a role he held for decades.
Over his 55-year career, Craig also coached football, baseball, and golf, shaping the lives of countless students.
His influence at Junction City High School was deep.
Craig’s dedication to his athletes went beyond the court, teaching them discipline, teamwork, and resilience.
His influence earned him a place in the Junction City High School Hall of Fame and numerous accolades, including being named the National Federation of High Schools’ National Basketball Coach of the Year twice.
Craig’s passing created a void in Junction City, but his family and community are dedicated to honoring him.
On June 28, 2025, a Celebration of Life will be held at 1 PM on Craig Rothenberger Court at Junction City High School.
Aimee and her siblings shared the announcement on Facebook, inviting all who were touched by Craig’s life to attend.
“We will continue sharing memories with a BBQ at the Corey Home following the event at the High School; we invite all to come,” they wrote.
The outpouring of love from former players, colleagues, and friends speaks to Craig’s far-reaching impact.
His ability to connect with people, whether through a kind word or a shared laugh, made him a cherished figure in Oregon’s high school sports community.
Craig Rothenberger’s wife, Arlene, and their children continue to represent the values he held dear: family, community, and service.
Arlene’s quiet strength remains a guiding light for their family, while Bart, Ty, and Aimee carry forward their father’s legacy in their own ways.
Craig’s grandchildren will grow up hearing stories of their grandfather’s kindness, humor, and passion for life.
As Junction City prepares to celebrate Craig’s life, his memory will live on in the countless lives he touched.
From the basketball court to the family dinner table, Craig Rothenberger was a man who loved deeply and led with heart.
Craig’s wife, Arlene, and their family show that he lived a meaningful life full of love and purpose.
