The unexpected death of Craig C. Studley follows his courageous battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
Craig C. Studley lived a life marked by dedication, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the people and causes he cherished.
Known affectionately as “Studs” to his friends and family, Craig built a legacy that extended far beyond his professional achievements, touching countless lives through his charitable work, enduring friendships, and infectious love for golf.
Born on October 30, 1956, to Richard E. and Carolyn M. (Anderson) Studley in Providence, Rhode Island, Craig spent his formative years in Duluth, Minnesota.
The northern Minnesota city shaped his character and instilled values that would guide him throughout his 68 years of life.
Craig graduated from Duluth East High School before pursuing higher education at the University of Minnesota Duluth, where he earned degrees in both History and Accounting.
During his college years, Craig discovered his passion for football, playing for both the Greyhound and UMD Bulldog teams.
These experiences on the gridiron provided him with more than athletic skills—they forged lifelong friendships and created memories he treasured throughout his life.
Craig often reflected that while his academic achievements laid the foundation for his successful business career, the relationships and experiences from his football days represented his most valued benefits from college.
After graduation, Craig briefly explored teaching and coaching high school sports.
However, one year in education convinced him to pursue a different path, leading him toward a business career that would span decades.
His accounting background and natural leadership abilities served him well in his professional endeavors.
Beyond his career, Craig demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to charitable causes.
He dedicated significant time and energy to Kiwanis International, United Way, the Mosaic Hospital Cancer Wellness Center, and Missouri Western University Athletics, among numerous other organizations.
This spirit of giving reflected his deep belief in community service and helping others.
Craig’s personal life centered around his beloved wife, Alane, whom he married and shared 37 wonderful years with until her death in 2022.
Together with their cherished friends, Craig and Alane traveled the world, creating unforgettable memories and strengthening bonds that lasted a lifetime.
Their marriage exemplified partnership, adventure, and mutual devotion.
Golf represented one of Craig’s greatest passions. Weather permitting, friends could reliably find him at St. Joseph Country Club, where he spent countless hours fine-tuning his game while entertaining his buddies with good-natured ribbing and laughter.
The Unexpected Death of Craig C. Studley Saddens All
Craig C. Studley passed away on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the age of 68, following unanticipated complications from what had been successful treatment for Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
Craig had been battling the disease since March 2025 and had achieved remission, making his sudden passing particularly shocking to his family and friends.
His sister, Lynn Mackin, expressed the family’s profound grief, stating that nothing had prepared them for this outcome at this point in time.
She shared her heartbreak over losing the brother she knew growing up, referring to him by the childhood nickname “Craig E Poo” that their father had lovingly used.
Her words captured the family’s struggle with the unexpected nature of his death:
“Life is hard.”
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Craig’s passing preceded him in death by his wife, Alane, and his mother, Kay (Carolyn).
He leaves behind his father, Richard; sisters Lynn Mackin and Sarah Boerner; nieces and nephews Shannon Mackin, Haley (Kevin) Welch, Spencer Boerner, Conner Welch, and Madelyn Welch; mother-in-law Arla Engleman; and brothers-in-law Paul Mackin, Steve Boerner, and Arlo Engleman.
The family planned a Celebration of Craig’s Life for Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 10:30 A.M. at Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory in St. Joseph, Missouri.
The service included a public livestream to accommodate all who wished to honor Craig’s memory. Visitation was scheduled for one hour prior to the service, from 9:30 to 10:30 A.M.
In a touching tribute to Craig’s personality and interests, the family encouraged attendees to wear their favorite golf attire, Kansas City Chiefs gear, or “Team Craig” shirts to the service.
The family planned inurnment at Whispering Pines Cremation Garden at St. Joseph Memorial Park for a later date, allowing for a more intimate gathering for final respects.
Recognizing Craig’s battle with cancer and his commitment to helping others, the family requested that memorial donations be directed to the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center.
