Craig Michael Toonen

After a long, unwavering battle with kidney disease, Craig Toonen, 70, joined his brother and best friend, Bruce, in heaven on March 23, 2022. Craig was born in Green Bay, attended St. Joseph grade school, and graduated from Premontre High School in 1969.

Craig was a true music lover, talented guitarist, and vocalist his entire life. In high school, Craig and his brother Bruce's band was often featured at the popular Saturday night Premontre dances. After high school, Craig's talent in music led him from playing locally in Wisconsin to performing nationally and working for United Artists. For several years, Craig traveled the country for United Artists and managed numerous bands while performing as lead guitarist and vocalist. Craig also served in the Marines, something he was very proud of.

In 1989, he traded his guitar and travels for a quieter life when he married Linda Kiernan Wagner and became stepfather to four children and later, step grandfather to seven grandchildren.

Craig loved watching football with his brothers and nephews, playing tennis with his stepchildren, and attending their school sporting and extracurricular events. Whether it was middle school soccer or college graduations, Craig was at the children's side and always so very proud of them.

Craig was equally proud of his seven step grandchildren and loved each one deeply. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with them, whether it was playing on the swing set in the backyard or playing cards at the kitchen table. Craig also enjoyed a loving relationship with his parents, Clayton and Rita, a strong bond with his siblings, and a great friendship with his father-in-law, Pat Kiernan.

Craig is survived by his wife, his stepchildren, and step grandchildren: Linda Toonen; Heather (Dustin) Sam and Avery Kaap, Rockford, IL; Jon (Sally) Emerson and Addie Wagner, Cedarberg, WI; Matt (Becky) Kiera and Max Wagner, Carbondale, CO; Joel (Brittany) Uma and soon-to-be-born new baby Wagner, Cambridge, MA. He is also survived by his brothers Mark, Chris, and Scott Toonen and his sister Sue (David) Wickman; sister-in-law Mary (Bill) Stoltenberg; mother-in-law Bev Kiernan; several nieces and nephews; long-time friend RJ DeLain; and family friend Nichole Rued.

Craig was preceded in death by his brother, Bruce; his parents, Clayton and Rita Toonen; and his father-in-law, Pat Kiernan.

In lieu of traditional services, a celebration of Craig's life will be held this summer; entombment will take place at Allouez Catholic Mausoleum.

Craig was creative, clever, and a friend to all. He was devoted to his family and will be missed by all who knew him.