It is with great sadness that the family of R. Craig Sherwell announces his death on Oct. 26, 2023, after a long battle with Lewy body dementia. He was born on Nov. 19, 1947, in Salisbury, Maryland.
He served in the U.S. Navy as a submariner. Following his military service, he attended and graduated from University of Salisbury, Maryland, after which he apprenticed with a finish carpenter and builder in his hometown. He loved working with his hands, finding great pleasure in straight and level lines. A self-employed carpenter throughout his life, he was proud of his craftsmanship.
He made his way to New Hampshire, following his heart and sense of adventure. Craig enjoyed many outdoor activities: surfing, fishing, whitewater kayaking, but most of all he was a skier and ski instructor (PSIA II). He taught for decades at Ragged and Cannon mountains. He loved teaching people of all ages to ski.
Craig was a wonderful loving supportive husband and father. His family misses him greatly — his smile, his dry sense of humor, his love.
He leaves behind his wife of 48 years, Kathleen (Chase) Sherwell, children Christopher (Pam) and their children, Anna (Mike Harris), and Catherine (Greg Richards).
He is predeceased by his parents, Samuel L. and Vera York Sherwell, and his brother Samuel Sherwell. He is also survived by siblings Jon Sherwell (Linda) and Rosalie (Weeden) Nichols, and his lifelong friend Will Truitt, also, his wife’s extended family Jean Chase, Diana Merrill (Terry), Kenneth Merrill, David Merrill (Mark), Susie (Gene).
The family wishes to thank Merrimack County Nursing Home for their care and support through a difficult time. They provided a loving and supportive environment in which Craig could enjoy life, meeting people with his big blue eyes, a grin and a wave. As Craig never felt freer than when skiing, his family asks you to think of him on those beautiful bluebird sky days in late winter — the blindingly bright snow, a cool breeze, warm sun, peaceful quiet. A private burial will be at a later date at NH Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen.
Thibault-Neun Funeral Home in Franklin is assisting with arrangements and an online guestbook is available at neunfuneralhomes.com.
(1) entry
Sorry to hear about Craig's passing. I went to Salisbury University with him. He was a great guy and a great friend.
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