Baxter “Craig” Stace, 84, of Hart, passed away peacefully at home Friday, July 31, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born July 19, 1942, in Grand Rapids, the son of Ralph and Ruth (Cannon) Stace.

Craig served six years in the US Navy until being honorably discharged in 1965. He was a member of the VFW Post 8893 and 1329. Craig spent most of his adult life serving as pastor or minister of music throughout Michigan and Idaho.

In his spare time Craig enjoyed music, teaching, remodeling and most of all, spending time with his family and friends.

Craig is survived by: his wife of 35 years, Susan Stace; his children, Roger (Mandy) Stace, Ronda (Jim) Priest, Rory (Chariya) Stace, Russell (Renee) Stace, and Rebecca (Mike) Jones; several step-children; 19 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and several nieces.

Craig was preceded in death by: his parents; and his sister, Karen Perrault.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at the New Era Reformed Church, 4775 First Street, New Era, MI, with Pastor Benjamin Oliveira officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until time of services at the church. Interment will be in Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, Michigan, Thursday, August 13, 2026 at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the family to help with final expenses.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.

     And what does the Lord require of you?

To act justly and to love mercy

      and to walk humbly[a] with your God.

                                             Micah 6:8