Craig Michael Nystrom, 67, passed away on July 15, 2025.

Born in Minneapolis, MN, on November 22, 1957, to Norman and Delores Nystrom, Craig entered the world just shy of 11 months after his Irish twin sister, Linda. He was one of five children in the Nystrom household.

Craig grew up in the Minneapolis area and graduated from Robbinsdale High School. He answered the call to serve his country by joining the U.S. Navy, where he proudly served and made lifelong memories. While stationed in the Carolinas after a deployment in Spain, he met his first wife, Sandy Freske. They married in 1981 and welcomed children in 1983 and 1986. The couple lived in Hopkins and later Isanti before settling on Fish Lake in Mora, MN, where they raised their family during their 23 years of marriage.

Following his military service, Craig completed the Helmets to Hardhats program at Dunwoody College of Technology, which led to a successful 30+ year career as a pipefitter with Local 539.

Craig had a deep appreciation for nature, wildlife, and anything with a motor—or that went fast. He had a special love for animals, especially dogs, and held an exceptional bond with his companions Zoey (a Rottweiler) and Hank (a Black Lab). A proud patriot, he honored fellow servicemen by placing flags and flowers and cleaning the graves of family, friends, and brothers in arms.

Later in life, Craig met his companion Lynn Ellings, and they married in December 2022. They were the best of friends, sharing their days with their dogs, going on adventures and drives, enjoying ice cream, and appreciating the beauty of nature together.

Craig is survived by his wife, Lynn; his children, Michael (Kieu) and Katie; and his grandson, Maverick (6). He is also survived by his sisters, Linda and Jill, his brother, Lon, and his former wife, Sandy Kraemer. He was preceded in death by his parents and his older brother, Russ.

A visitation will be held at Methven Funeral Home on Friday, July 25, 2025, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM, with a short service to follow. Interment will take place at Camp Ripley on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 2:00 PM, with military honors.  Lunch will follow at 3:00 P.M. at the Little Falls Legion.

Fair winds and following seas, shipmate. We have the watch. You stand relieved.