Craig Lahren, age 59 of Hensler, ND died Thursday, April 16, 2009 at a Bismarck hospital following a courageous battle with cancer.

Funeral Services: 1:00 PM Tuesday, April 21, 2009;
Washburn United Methodist Church;
Rev. Marvin Winstryg, Officiating.

Interment: 3:00 PM Tuesday at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan;
Military Rites provided by the American Legion Post #12 of Washburn

Visitation: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM Monday at Washburn United Methodist Church;
Tuesday, one hour prior to time of service at the church

Craig Henry Lahren, beloved husband of Rebecca and loving father of Christina and Douglas, was born on August 2, 1949 in Bismarck to Ervin and Norma (Cullen) Lahren of rural Hensler. After graduating from Washburn High School, Craig served eight years in the United States Navy. Craig received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of North Dakota and his Master of Arts in Anthropology from Memphis State University. After working several years in the field of forensics in Tennessee, Craig and his family returned to North Dakota where he served as Administrator of the North Dakota Forensic Examiner's office and ranched near Hensler, ND.

Craig married Rebecca Ames in 1995 in Washburn, ND. Craig devoted his life to his family, and his children were the delight of their daddy's life. Craig enjoyed ranching and hunting. He was a member of the Washburn American Legion Post #12, serving as Adjutant for many years. Craig was a member of the Washburn United Methodist Church where he served as Lay Leader.

Craig is survived by his loving wife Rebecca and children Christina & Douglas of rural Hensler, ND; stepdaughters, Melissa Hight of Chattanooga, TN, Holly (Nick) Litwin of Oxford, Michigan; grandson Tristan Hight; six brothers and sisters: Lorna (Roger) Rask of Hensler, ND, Claudia (Mark) Stenson of Marshall, MN, Ross(Yon Suk) Lahren of Manassas, VA, Brenda (Jon) Hendrickson of Dickinson, ND, Blake Lahren of Bismarck, ND and Lisa (Kent) Miller of Phoenix, AZ; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.