Successful business owner and civic servant, Jack Craig, is a lifelong resident of Marion. Born on November 6th, 1930, Craig was raised in Marion, and graduated from Marion High School. He joined the U.S. Navy and was stationed in California and Hawaii, serving both active-duty and reserve for a total of 7 years of military service.
After moving back to Marion, he met his wife, and was inspired to invest in his own business while staying loyal to his hometown and family. With a generous business loan, he became the owner of Milton’s Department Store, downtown, Marion. In his 23 years of ownership, he served as president of the Indiana Retail Association and achieved an Outstanding Retailer Award through the association.
Craig was an avid philanthropist having served with numerous nonprofits including the United Way of Grant County (then called the United Fund of Grant County), Riverview Elementary School as commissioner, and the Marion-Grant County Chamber of Commerce including the Junior Chamber (or Jaycees).
Craig recalled answering phone calls through the Chamber during a time of civil unrest. He recollected helping a troubled black female resident, who had claimed her life was being threatened, by volunteering to personally come to her home to help her feel safe.
Craig was recognized by various organizations for his distinguished service, but when asked what his greatest accomplishment was, he simply stated he “enjoyed civic work to help his fellow man.”
Considering his vast community service, Craig expressed the most passion for helping the local United Way. Craig stated, “That’s probably the most important thing. The ‘United Fund’ monies stay in Grant County.”
Craig is also a true patriot. He received the “Proudly We Hail” award in 1987 from the Marion Exchange Club for his leadership through example of properly and proudly displaying the American flag in front of his home. To this day, he displays loyal patriotism.
Craig and his late wife, Opal, have three children and several grandchildren. Many of his family members reside locally.