Craig Gordon Grimestad, 70, of Westmont, passed away on March 10, 2026. Born on August 9, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, to Olive and Earling Grimestad, he grew up with a strong foundation that shaped his life of service and faith.
Craig graduated from York High School in Elmhurst before earning a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from General Motors Institute and a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois at Chicago. He dedicated thirty years of his career to the Electro Motive Division of General Motors and another twenty years at Iron Mountain.
Above all, Craig was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend, and neighbor. He was the heart of his family, always stepping in to help, pouring his energy into making every person feel loved and every gathering special. He served as the family’s primary handyman, a church youth leader, a sports coach, and a school board member. A passionate Christian, he lived his faith openly and used his remarkable survival after being struck by lightning in 1988 to share his testimony and the message of God’s salvation.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Joann née Peterson; his son David (Michelle) Grimestad; his daughter Renae Grimestad; and his late son Matthew (Susie) Grimestad. He was a cherished grandfather to Jonathan, Sarah, Noelle, and Emily Grimestad. Craig passed unexpectedly, surrounded by his loving family.
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