It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved brother, uncle, and friend, Craig Matthew Hauzen. Craig passed away at the age of 71 on September 6, 2021, after a hard-fought battle with Chronic Pulmonary Fibrosis. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family.
Craig was born December 9, 1949, in Provo, Utah. The second of five children born to Joseph Toffee Hauzen and Joyce Carson Hauzen.Craig grew up in Orem and attended Saint Francis Catholic High School in Provo. He then attended Utah State University and Notre Dame University where he obtained advanced degrees in both English Literature and Poetry. Ultimately, the academic world did not suit his free-spirited personality. While remaining a consummate scholar until his death, he spent most of his adult life working as a pipe fitter. He had a successful career in pipe fitting and was able to travel the country, making friends wherever he went. He retired in 2004 and returned home to care for his mother, who was the single most important person in his life.
Craig was a complex, one-of-a-kind human being. Anyone who had the privilege of being in his life, was undoubtedly changed forever by that experience. He was a writer, a poet, a comedian, an avid reader, and above all a teacher. He instilled in all of us an appreciation for both science and the arts. He loved art house films from all the world and watched with intensity and passion. His critical and observant eye rivaled that of any professional movie critic.
Craig had many amazing qualities but will likely be remembered most for his incredible sense of humor. He had a quick wit and could find the humor in all situations. Craig truly saw the world through his own unique lens. His humorous musing about daily life and the human struggle will be missed immensely.
Craig, while often misunderstood, was an amazing human being with an endless capacity for love and generosity. For his nieces and nephews, and later, for his adopted daughters and their children, time with Craig was always treasured. Those memories will be cherished forever. His all-encompassing love and attentiveness was transformative to all those who were fortunate enough to spend time with him.
Craig is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Toffee Hauzen and Joyce Carson Hauzen, as well as his sister-in-law, Janice Hauzen.
He is survived by his brothers: Joseph Hauzen and Mark (Joan) Hauzen. His sisters: Theresa (Wayne) Luck and Mariam (Tom) Thomas. His adopted daughters: Alexis Villar and Catrina (Alan) Diaz and their beautiful children: Hennessy, Isiah, and Axel Diaz--whom Craig loved and adored.
He is also survived by his beloved nieces and nephews: Mark (Wendi) Hauzen, Jake (Jennifer) Hauzen, Richard (Ginna) Luck, Cheyenne (Juliana) Luck, Cristin Shae, Alicia (Rob) Hansen, Angela Ortega, Natalie (Greg) Manolakis, Sarah (Matt) Anderson, Amy Peterson, Emily (Paul) Konold and Jennifer Booth--to whom he was particularly close and has fondly referred as "Beans" since childhood. Craig also leaves behind his beloved dog, Tux. Tuxy was a loyal and precious companion whom Craig loved more than anything in the world. Happily, Tux has been taken in by Craig's niece Sarah (Matt) Anderson who will love and care for him as Craig would have wanted.
In accordance with Craig's final wishes, there will be no funeral or after service luncheon. He asked only for a simple graveside service, which will be held Saturday, September 11, 2021, at 1:00pm at Orem City Cemetery. Please wear a mask. While Craig managed to "beat covid" the pandemic was greatly concerning to him. In lieu of flowers he has asked for his loved ones to be vaccinated—or in his words "tell everyone to get the jab".
The family would also like to thank Dr. Samer Saleh, Registered Nurse Richard, the respiratory therapists and all the ICU staff at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center for their love and compassion towards our father, brother, and uncle at his final days.
Condolences and memories may be offered to the family at www.walkersanderson.com