Francis Joseph Craig Sr., 82, from Whitehall Township, died Aug. 11, 2014, peacefully at home.

Married for 57 years, he was the loving husband of Mary (Bonner) and the father of Francis Jr., Coleen, Joseph, Sister Mary Anne OSF, Anthony and his wife, Lori; John and his wife, Kim; Thomas and his wife, Stacy Broad, Catherine and her husband, Francis Altmire.

Faith and family were of the greatest significance in his life.

Known as Opa to his 17 grandchildren, nothing brought him greater joy than the gift and blessing of family.

Born in 1932 in Chester, he was the son of the late James Patrick and Rose Agnes Craig.

A graduate of St. James High School and Villanova University, he studied chemical engineering.

Following graduation in 1953, he went on to work at Air Products and Chemicals Inc., where he was employed until retirement.

He and his wife moved to Fullerton, Whitehall Township, shortly after their marriage and were longtime members of St. Elizabeth Parish.

He was active in the Holy Name Society, a parish lector, usher and eucharistic minister, and was actively involved in many volunteer activities at the church and parish school.

He instilled in his children a deep sense of commitment, service, responsibility and love for their faith communities.

A passionate advocate for respect for human life, he dedicated much of his life to efforts to end abortion and promote respect for life in the womb.

For more than 40 years, he coordinated the Pennsylvanians for Human Life annual flower sale to educate and provide awareness regarding the value and dignity of human life.

His commitment to life also allowed him to incorporate his love of coupons and grocery shopping into supporting those who are poor and most in need.

He found great joy in helping others in simple and ordinary ways, and he was always unique in bringing happiness and fun to so many.

His joy of living was expressed in his special nicknames for those he loved and the crazy songs he would often sing to welcome them.

Able to fix anything, he spent much time tinkering with ideas and tools and teaching his children to do the same.

He loved photography, music, reading and golf.

Kind, quiet in his generosity and modest in the way he chose to live, his integrity, strength and spirit continue to inspire goodness.

In addition to his wife and children, he is survived by his brother Bernard; grandchildren Patrick, Daniel, Corey, Michael, Ryan, Gabriella, Connor, Bridget, Frankie, Mary Kate, Ian, Alexa, Audrey, Lucas, Margot, Joseph and Gianna; and extended family.

Contributions may be made to the Sisters of St. Francis Foundation, 609 S. Convent Road, Aston, PA 19014; foundation@osfphila.org or to Mary's Shelter, 714 W. Broad St., Bethlehem, PA 18018.

Arrangements were made by Gilbert Funeral Home, Whitehall.