Craig "Bear" Alan Kurasz

Craig, "Bear" Kurasz, age 51, of Neillsville, WI died, unexpectedly, Wednesday, September 7, 2016 at his residence.Craig Alan Kurasz was born on August 23, 1965 in Neillsville the son of Lee and Joan (Halle) Kurasz. He attended St. John's Lutheran School and graduated from Neillsville High School in 1983. During High School he enlisted into the National Guard and served 9 years and was honorably discharged. After graduation he attended WWTC in La Crosse. Bear then worked for Long Hammer Construction. He worked in carpentry and also logging. He was involved in a serious car accident on December 28, 1998 that left him permanently disabled and unable to work. However, after his accident he discovered a passion for glass etching and painting.Craig was a member of St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Neillsville. He was an avid deer, bear and small game hunter. He loved fishing and just enjoyed being in the outdoors, including camping and gardening. Other joys in life were watching Jeopardy, playing cards and playing any games with family, friends and random strangers. He is survived by his parents, Lee and Joan Kurasz of Neillsville, WI, a sister, Brenda (Chester) Oldham of Granton, WI, a sister-in-law, Rosemary Kurasz of Neillsville, WI, a brother-in-law, Gary Anason of Neillsville, WI, nieces and nephews, Eric, Katrina, Jeremy, Josh (Becca), Zach (Robyn) and many cousins, aunts and uncles.He was preceded in death by his brother, John, a sister, Lynnette and his grandparents.A Memorial Service for Bear will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 13, 2016 at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church. Pastor Timothy Biebert will officiate. Interment will be in the Neillsville City Cemetery with Military Honors performed by the Neillsville Veteran's Council. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., Monday at the Gesche Funeral Home and from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, at the church.Honorary Casket Bearers are: Jim Carney, Bruce Brey, Dana Elmhorst, Ronnie Kurasz, Larry Weigel, Brett Pohle, Seth Meier and Nick Ward.Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com. The Gesche Funeral Home is assisting Craig's family with Funeral arrangements.Funeral Home:Gesche Funeral Home4 South Grand AvenueNeillsville, WIUS 54456