Longtime faculty member John “Jack” George Craig died at age 83 on May 9, after a long struggle with cancer.
Craig was born in Oakville, Man., where he spent his early years as a farmer but later pursued higher education and focused on his career as an educator and researcher. He earned a BA from the University of Saskatchewan, an MA in sociology from the University of Washington and a PhD in sociology from the University of Washington.
He had a long, successful career as a professor of sociology as well as environmental studies, at York, which began in July 1971. He served on the faculty at York University until June 30, 1996, and spent the years of 1986 to 1989 as Chair of the Sociology Department.
Through his research and scholarship, Craig became an internationally recognized expert in the field of co-operatives. He earned many honours for his work and was widely published.
Jack and his wife, Dianne, enjoyed international travel, visiting every continent during their 60 years of marriage. He will be remembered by family, colleagues and friends for his profound goodness and decency, his respect for other people and cultures, and his dedication to the betterment of humanity.
A celebration of life was held on May 23. Donations in Craig’s memory may be made to the Ontario Credit Union Foundation (ocuf.org).