The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

Craig B. Haataia, 41, died at his Naselle, Washington residence on December 24, 2012 of natural causes. Craig was born in Longview, Washington on June 10, 1971, the son of Gilbert and Sarah (Lorton) Haataia. He was proud of his Quinault Indian and Finnish ancestry.

Craig graduated from Naselle High School where he played baseball, basketball and football for the Comets. Following high school he became a heavy equipment operator and truck driver for the past 17 years.

Craig was a member of the Naselle Assembly of God Church. He enjoyed all the outdoor activities this area offers--hunting, camping, softball, golf, and clamming. He also enjoyed classic vehicles and fishing with his dad and brother Tim. Paramount of his interests was his son Hunter who he loved deeply and he was very proud of.

Craig and Tish Young were married in September of 1998. She survives. Also surviving are his son Hunter; parents Gib and Sarah Haataia; brothers Bob and Tim Haataia; nieces and nephews Alecia Haataia, Brittany Heaton, Brycen Haataia, Brandon Haataia, Amanda Haataia, Chase Haataia, Caleb Haataia, Holly Haataia, and Hannah Haataia. He was preceded in death by son Timmy Haataia and sister Carla Haataia.

A memorial service and celebration of his life will be held Saturday, January 5, 2013, one p.m. at the Naselle Assembly of God Church with a reception following. Memorials requested to the Hunter Haataia trust fund at Bank of The Pacific. Craig’s guestbook is available at http://www.penttilaschapel.com.