William (Craig) Kittleson

William (Craig) Kittleson, departed to his Eternal Home May 11 after a valiant fight with prostate cancer. He died at home surrounded by his loving family.

Craig was born October 17, 1954 in Duluth Minnesota. He grew up in Texas and graduated from Texas A&M University. Upon graduation, Craig served in the United States Marine Corps where he excelled as a Cobra pilot and had numerous worldwide assignments flying his beloved Cobra attack helicopter. Promoted to Major, his final tour was his selection as a Presidential Aircraft Commander for Marine Helicopter Squadron One, flying Presidents Ronald Reagan and George Herbert Walker Bush. After a distinguished military career, Craig transitioned and began a second career as a Captain for Southwest Airlines where he remained for the next 21 years.

Craig is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Gail, son Chad (Kati) Kittleson, daughter Robyn (Wesley) Hughes, 4 grandchildren, Kennedy, Bennett, Twins - Caleb and Brantley; sister Debbie (Gary) Golucke; and several relatives. Craig is predeceased by his parents, Earl L. Kittleson and Betty C. Kittleson.

Craig was humble, intelligent, witty, dedicated, loyal and one of the kindest human beings you will ever meet. Craig was a man of great faith and was a member of Crosswater Community Church in Ponte Vedra, FL. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved to do yard work, garden, surf, lift weights, jog, bike and was excellent at everything he turned his attention to.

There will be a Celebration of Life service June 25 at 2:00pm at Crosswater Community Church, 211 Davis Park Road, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081, followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider donating to Crosswater Community Church ( https://www.kindridgiving.com/app/giving/kindrid-fu6m88h ) or to a charity of your choosing in Craig’s memory.