This note came from a friend via Messenger:
Hi Craig, I have been meaning to write to you yet struggling to find the words. I have been following your journey closely and my admiration for you continues to grow. So I finally decided to just write, thinking the words would come. Somehow, they still fail me but I'll do my best. When I moved to Canada almost two decades ago, you were among the first people I met. I visited you at CBC where you gave me a tour and chatted with me about my dreams of someday working in radio. You told me about college programs, made calls, helped me apply. And thus, the trajectory of my Canadian adventure changed. It turned into my Canadian life instead. So many wonderful things happened to me, so many great friendships, some of the very best in fact, were formed as a direct result of meeting you. Throughout the next couple of decades, our paths would continue to cross regularly, most consistently at Starbucks. It was always so great to see you come in on your way to work. You had a kind word for all and were always good for a laugh... and early in the morning, that's saying something! But what I most admire about you, is your dedication to people, to human decency, compassion and kindness. You worked incredibly hard to make this community a safe place for refugees and immigrants from everywhere. I have witnessed the diversity of this province blossom and you and the IRSA were at the heart of it all. Your presence has made this world a better place and your legacy will continue to do so. I feel very lucky to have met you and I will still look to you for guidance when I'm unsure of how to approach people. You have led this community by example. I wish you nothing but peace and love and beautiful, quiet moments with Mary and your kids. Lots of love und Gute Reise. ❤️ Stephanie
Mackie... my old partner in crime on Mackenzie Morning at CBC Inuvik. Rascal that you always were, pouring that little shot of Kahlua in our coffee for the last celebratory half hour of the show. The last time I saw you was blasting through the arrivals door at Toronto Pearson, while waiting for my husband. Then I hear... "Heartbreaker!" My heart is truly breaking old friend to see you exiting this world so soon, but I am so happy to read you are doing it with joy and on your own terms. And to see what an impact you have made in your world.
ReplyDeleteWell done Craig.
This story doesn't surprise me at all. Craig's magic was seeing the potential in people and removing barriers, but more importantly connecting groups of people to a larger purpose. He did that in his broadcasting career and later with the newcomers association. I first met Craig in the mid '70's at CKCU, a community radio station at Carelton University in Ottawa. I'd been doing a fair bit of writing about environmental issues but had no training or experience in radio. CKCU was full of creative people doing extraordinary things in music, theatre, journalism, comedy and keeping it all together was Craig. Finances were always a nightmare, but Craig's message was just keeping doing what you're doing and we'll be OK. I got work with CBC ONLY because of my time at CKCU and the opportunities and encouragement that Craig generously provided. I had no journalism degree, no professional experience, and really no expectations when I applied for a job (in fact someone else applied for me- thank you Dave Mowbray). I succeeded because Craig had created an atmosphere that first and foremost broadcasting is a creative medium to tell stories, to stir people's imaginations. CBC beat some of that out of me (and gave me a livelihood) but those years at CKCU will always be my fondest memories of what radio can be.
ReplyDeleteI knew about Craig's mom from years ago but did not know this disease was stalking Craig as well. I'm shocked and saddened, but know my friend that your management skills and efforts to beat back unwelcome bureaucracy and red tape so that people have the space and time to do good work will always be remembered. You made this broadcaster and many others better. Thank you.
Ian Petrie
Hello from Ally and the Interlude Café, after immigrating from the island of Taiwan to this island I remember you walking through the door as one of my first customers. Your weekly visits were very much appreciated and encouraged me as a newcomer. You always greeted me with a smile and some humor which made me feel welcome and confident of my decision to open a business here. Having become friends, I awaited your weekly visit for your “Buddha special” lunch order and listened to your insights and curiosities concerning tai chi, the nature construct from small stones & flowers on the roadside to the sky cloud arrangements and Sea breeze. Your interest and love of this life comes through in your photography. Remember the painting you asked me about in 2014. Thank you for contributing to the social harmony on this little island making new immigrants and refugees a welcome group in the community. Now on every annual Diversity festival in the future I will think of you and your dedication to the growth of these events. I will see you walking through in your famous white Chinese shirt flowing in your tai chi movements leaving a beautiful and eternal memory. I follow the Buddha way and the dharma/book teachings and believe that life is infinite and there must be another self, waiting for expression in the future with more beautiful stories from a new beginning! I sincerely pray for you daily that your pain is minimized and create some final happiness. The Buddha & Bodhisattvas will surely bless a good man. You have captured the attention of the GEBIS monastery monks who are offering prays for you daily. May you enjoy the warm sunshine of Autumn every day with a heart full of love in anticipation of your favorite holiday, Halloween. I trust you are rich and comfortable in spirit…Above all else, I want to hold your hand and say thank you from my heart; it was wonderful to know you. All the best, Ally
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