Craig P. Hartwig, age 71, of Santa Rosa Beach, FL, formerly of Owatonna, died of natural causes Monday, January 22, 2024.

Craig was born June 10, 1952 in Owatonna, Minnesota, to Marvin and Betty (Page) Hartwig. He was the younger brother of Mary, and older brother of Sue.

Craig was a standout in athletics at Owatonna High School where he lettered a total of 7 times in basketball, track, and football. He was the school record holder in the shot put, and a unanimous all-conference pick in football in 1970. In 2000 he was named to the Owatonna All Century Football Team, and in 2012 he was named to the Owatonna High School Athletics Hall of Fame.

Craig earned a football scholarship to the University of Minnesota where he played for one year. He then transferred to Mankato State University, where he was a 3 year starter. In 1974 he served as a team captain and earned 1st team All-NCC honors. Craig's intense drive on the football field earned him a contract with the Atlanta Falcons of the National Football League. He graduated Mankato State with a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education.

It was at Mankato State that Craig met Laurie McGuiness (Heuss). They wed on August 7th, 1976. They had one son, Justin, whom they raised in West Des Moines, Iowa.

Craig spent his working productive years as a salesman, primarily in the food service industry. He was a diligent worker that maximized his gift of administration, to prepare and execute in the work force much like he did on the gridiron. In 2007 he was inducted into the Pepsi Company's prestigious 'Ring of Honor,' which is the highest sales performance award for the entire worldwide sales force.

However the most significant moment of Craig's life occurred in 1998 at the age of 46, when he received the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and came into relationship with the Living God. With a transformed heart and renewed mind, Craig lived out his faith by using his time, gifting, and treasures to serve others with what God had entrusted him.

In 2012 Craig retired from his sales career, and moved to Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, where he reveled in the simple life…trading in his cleats, and his wingtips…for sandals.

Craig will be remembered for the deep relationships he cultivated. Craig was a faithful friend, who loved to ask questions, and find out your story. Coined the 'Pillar' by his college line coach, Craig became a pillar of righteousness on the playing field of life. A man of integrity, he was always willing to stand in the gap for friends and strangers alike. If you knew Craig, you were no stranger to his witty sarcasm, unmistakable belly laughs, and his straightforward but thoughtful approach.

Craig was a man of stature both figuratively and literally. His legacy will carry on in the stories of those that called him 'Harty', in the hearts of those that called him 'Family', and in the trajectory of the lives of those that called him 'Friend.' He will especially be missed by the one who called him 'Father.'

Craig was preceded in death by his father Marvin Hartwig, mother Betty Hartwig, sister Mary Hartwig.

He is survived by his sister Sue Hartwig, son Justin Hartwig, daughter-in-law Amy Hartwig, granddaughter Ellie Hartwig, former spouse Laurie Heuss, and significant other Moding Anthony.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 16, 2024, at Michaelson Funeral Home in Owatonna with visitation one hour prior and a lunch reception immediately following the service. Livestream available at https://wearelivetoday.com/craig-hartwig. Private burial will in Forest Hill Cemetery in Owatonna.

In lieu of donations, please consider honoring Craig's legacy by supporting the Fellowship of Christian Athletes in the greater Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area where his son Justin currently serves.   https://my.fca.org/?form=artbroadwick and click on 'Dedicate this donation', and specify 'Craig Hartwig Memorial'.