William Alexander Crago: Engineer, Coach, and Devoted Family Man, Passes Away at 86
PEMBROKE, Ontario —
William Alexander “Bill” Crago, a man of many talents and passions, passed away on March 9, 2025, at the age of 86. Known for his dedication to family, career, and community, Crago leaves behind a legacy of mentorship, engineering ingenuity, and unwavering support for those he loved.
From Atomic Energy to Baseball Diamonds: A Life of varied Pursuits
Born on May 14, 1938, in Exeter, Ontario, Bill Crago’s interests spanned a wide spectrum. he earned degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Queen’s University and the University of Western Ontario before embarking on a 33-year career at Atomic Energy of Canada (AECL). While the specifics of his work there remain somewhat shrouded in mystery, his contributions were undoubtedly significant.
Beyond his professional life, Crago was deeply involved in sports, both as a participant and a mentor. He played baseball, even joking that his fastball eventually slowed to 60 mph. He also dedicated 36 years to refereeing hockey and umpiring baseball,developing and guiding countless local officials. Despite developing cataracts early in life, he maintained his commitment to the games he loved.
A Passion for Hobbies and Family
Crago’s hobbies included photography, woodworking, and model trains. He diligently photographed trains, rail yards, and family events. His model train enthusiasm lead him to decades of involvement with the Ottawa Valley Associated Railroaders (OVAR). An avid gardener,he tapped maple trees in the spring and cultivated tomatoes in the summer. He was also a skilled woodworker, crafting furniture for his loved ones.
Above all, Crago was a devoted family man and is survived by his wife Janis (née Webb) of 62 years, his children William Barry (Heather), Linda, Nancy (Chris Neville), and his late daughter Rebecca “Becky” (Shawn O’Connor) along with ten grandchildren. He actively followed his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events,even streaming games online in recent years to stay connected and track their progress. He was known for his quiet support and playful teasing.
Remembering a Life Well-Lived
A Celebration of life will be held later this spring. Donations to the Pembroke Regional Hospital Cancer Care unit are appreciated as an expression of sympathy.
Arrangements are under the care of the Neville Funeral Home, 491 Isabella St., Pembroke.
**What specific contributions did Bill crago make during his 33-year career at Atomic Energy of Canada (AECL)?** This question seeks to delve deeper into Crago’s professional life, which is mentioned as being important but lacking specific details in the provided text.
William Alexander Crago: Engineer, Coach, and Devoted Family Man, Passes Away at 86
PEMBROKE, Ontario —
william Alexander “Bill” Crago, a man of many talents and passions, passed away on March 9, 2025, at the age of 86. Known for his dedication to family, career, and community, Crago leaves behind a legacy of mentorship, engineering ingenuity, and unwavering support for those he loved.
From Atomic Energy to Baseball Diamonds: A Life of varied Pursuits
Born on May 14, 1938, in Exeter, Ontario, Bill Crago’s interests spanned a wide spectrum. he earned degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Queen’s University and the University of Western Ontario before embarking on a 33-year career at Atomic Energy of Canada (AECL). While the specifics of his work there remain somewhat shrouded in mystery,his contributions were undoubtedly significant.
Beyond his professional life, Crago was deeply involved in sports, both as a participant and a mentor. He played baseball,even joking that his fastball eventually slowed to 60 mph. He also dedicated 36 years to refereeing hockey and umpiring baseball,developing and guiding countless local officials. Despite developing cataracts early in life, he maintained his commitment to the games he loved.
A Passion for Hobbies and Family
Crago’s hobbies included photography, woodworking, and model trains. He diligently photographed trains, rail yards, and family events. His model train enthusiasm lead him to decades of involvement with the Ottawa Valley Associated Railroaders (OVAR). an avid gardener,he tapped maple trees in the spring and cultivated tomatoes in the summer. He was also a skilled woodworker, crafting furniture for his loved ones.
Above all, Crago was a devoted family man and is survived by his wife Janis (née Webb) of 62 years, his children William Barry (Heather), Linda, nancy (Chris Neville), and his late daughter Rebecca “Becky” (Shawn O’Connor) along with ten grandchildren. He actively followed his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events,even streaming games online in recent years to stay connected and track their progress. He was known for his quiet support and playful teasing.
Remembering a Life Well-Lived
A Celebration of life will be held later this spring. Donations to the Pembroke Regional Hospital Cancer Care unit are appreciated as an expression of sympathy.
Arrangements are under the care of the Neville Funeral Home, 491 Isabella St., Pembroke.
Frequently Asked Questions about William Alexander Crago
Q: What was Bill Crago’s profession?
A: He was a mechanical Engineer. he worked for Atomic Energy of Canada (AECL) for 33 years.
Q: What were some of Bill Crago’s hobbies?
A: His hobbies included photography (especially of trains), woodworking, model trains (with the Ottawa Valley Associated Railroaders or OVAR), and gardening.
Q: What sports was Bill Crago involved in?
A: He played baseball and dedicated 36 years to refereeing hockey and umpiring baseball.He also followed his family’s sporting events.
Q: How did bill Crago stay connected with his family’s sports activities?
A: Even with developing cataracts, he streamed games online to watch his children and grandchildren play. He was known for his quiet support and playful teasing.
Q: Where can I send donations in Bill Crago’s memory?
A: Donations can be sent to the Pembroke Regional Hospital Cancer Care unit.
Q: When and where will the Celebration of Life be held?
A: It will be held later this spring. Specific details regarding the date and location are provided in the future.
bill Crago’s rich life,filled with family,career,and community involvement,serves as an inspiration.Consider honoring his memory by supporting the Pembroke Regional hospital Cancer Care unit.
