Tribute

It is with great sadness that the family of Craig Vincent Westland announces his unexpected passing weeks before he would be 65 years old.

Craig was born in Long Beach, California, USA, to Nan and Vince Westland. He was a beloved brother to his older sisters, Patty, Debbie, and Karen, and later to his younger brother and sister, Curtis and Heather.

Craig had a happy childhood in California with family picnics and beach time with his Aunts, Uncles and numerous close Cousins.

In 1967 Craig’s life changed with the passing of his mother. Following his mom’s death the Westland’s moved frequently, Craig’s favourite place was the farm. This is where he found his love for animals which became one of Craig’s greatest passions. As a teenager, he started training in the sport of boxing, becoming a boxer was a goal which he shared with his father. This was also the time that he discovered his love of muscle cars, dune buggies and chevy big blocks – almost anything that went fast!

In 1972, Craig, his father and his two younger siblings, moved to Victoria to be near Craig’s Aunt Marg and Aunt Mary. This was a challenging time in Craig’s life. At age 16, Craig made up his mind to return to California.

Craig was a resourceful and resilient individual. With the support of his cousin and guardian, Steve Ely, he finished high school and went on to Fullerton College to study fine arts.

During this time, Craig met his son’s mother, Delores. In 1979, Craig celebrated the birth of his beautiful son Craig Victor Westland, who is also known as CJ. CJ was the light of Craig’s life. Craig deeply loved CJ and talked about his son daily.

Craig worked hard to provide the best life possible. He moved the family to Victoria and this is where he began his carpentry apprenticeship.

His life changed again when Delores and CJ moved to Chicago.

Craig continued on his path in Carpentry to fulfill his dream to own his own home. Craig renovated a 1903 house in Oak Bay, from top to bottom during this time. He started his own company and was a successful businessman in Victoria, BC. Craig & CJ reconnected when CJ was twelve. It was around this time period when Craig found his love for drag boating and water sports. It is also when Craig met Bob Johnstone, who would become Craig’s best friend. Together, Craig and Bob shared many adventures; house boating on Shushwap Lake, Snow Boarding, Mountain Biking, Wake Boarding and Boat Racing. Many gratifying meals were spent together at the Six Mile Pub.

The next chapter in Craig’s life began when he met Chris, the love of his life. Craig slowly built a trusting relationship with Chris that flourished into a fresh start for both of them in Shawnigan Lake, BC. Craig became a step-father and role model to Chris’ sons, Nick and Mat. Together, Craig and Chris navigated blending their lives. They both loved Shawnigan Lake and the great pleasure of their lives, combined, was the purchase of their property on the South West side of Shawnigan Lake.

In 2005, Craig took Chris’ hand in marriage with a beautiful ceremony celebrated on the dock of their property.

The next milestone in Craig’s life was when he started to build their dream home. Through his labour of love, Craig showed his fine craftsmanship and attention to detail. He incorporated Chris’ wish-list for the things she loves most in a home, the bedroom with the spectacular lake view and the spa-style bathroom. He perfectly designed their home and ensured it was filled with natural light. Craig found peace and solace in their home and on the property while walking in their woods. Over the years, Craig could often be found there looking for his cats Jasper, Sabbath and M.I.A.!

With the addition of their grandson, Elijah in 2017, son of Nick and Kacey, Craig found a new happiness. The innocence of a child brought a new spark into his life. Elijah and Craig had a special love for each other, and Craig was happy to return that love with silliness, boat rides, sliding on the ski jump, riding on “Bumpa’s Toy” (the Side by Side), snack time from the top secret special snack drawer, and hot wheels. Craig would often say “Elijah humbles me.”

Craig was most recently blessed with the birth of CJ and Denise’s daughter, Luna. He always hoped that CJ would have a child of his own to love and cherish. Craig had looked forward to meeting and spending time with his precious granddaughter.

Craig will be lovingly remembered and missed by his beloved wife Chris, sons CJ (Denise), Nick (Kacey), and Mat (Trashcan the puppy, aptly named after the cartoon Astroboy) and his grandchildren Luna and Elijah.

Craig is survived by his siblings Patty (Steve), Debbie, Karen, Curtis and Heather (Scott), as well as his many extended family and friends.

We will be honouring Craig’s life, lakeside, at the family home on Tuesday, September 20^th at 3:30 pm. The memorial will be followed by dinner.

Craig would always try to protect any human or animal in need. If you wish to make a memorial donation in his memory, we know Craig would be grateful for contributions made to the “Connection of Freedom Society”, a Christian Ministry and registered non-profit organization where Craig’s good friend Aneil Perwal is the pastor. Craig and Aneil had a solid friendship in the ‘80’s and established a re-connection just six months ago. Aneil helped bring peace to Craig’s life. Craig was helping Aneil provide for the needs of the community and Aneil was supporting Craig on his own personal journey.

Connection to Freedom Jail & Street Outreach Society

Business #: 88046-9218-RR001

349 Campbell Street, Duncan, BC, V9L 3H7

Email: aneil.per@gmail.com

There will be a tithing box at the memorial for donations. Tax receipts for donations to this cause will be issued, home address is required if you wish to receive a tax receipt. Official tax receipts will be issued in time for the 2022 tax year. Please include your mailing address if donating by e-transfer.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart

 and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

 Mathew 11:28-30