Craig Warren Wheelright was born on January 4, 1958, in Moorhead, Minnesota, to Loren and Darlene (Braton) Wheelright. He grew up in Barnesville, Minnesota, where he attended school. School was never his favorite place, but life outside the classroom suited him just fine.
As a young man, Craig followed his own path, spending a year in California before moving to Louisiana, where he worked on oil rigs along the ocean. He later continued working in the oil industry in western North Dakota, earning a living through hard work and long days.
About 30 years ago, Craig returned to the Fargo-Moorhead area, where he settled back into the community he knew best. He worked as a carpet layer alongside Kevin Boone, a job that reflected his practical skills and steady nature.
Craig enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He liked spending time at the AmVets bar, where he could visit and socialize, and he also enjoyed trips to casinos and camping. At home, he was content watching television and enjoying the comfort of familiar surroundings. He was a simple man who didn’t need much to be happy.
Craig shared a lifelong friendship with his best friend, Mark Lillequist, a bond that remained strong through the years.
Craig will be remembered for his quiet nature, his independence, and his appreciation for a life lived simply and on his own terms.
He is survived by his mother Dar Hines, of Barnesville, MN; siblings: Bruce Wheelright, Darrel (Grace) Wheelright, Mary (Craig LaBelle) Wheelright, Kevin (Kim) Hines, and Tom (Heidi) Hines; and several nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his dad Loren and step mother Ione Wheelright and step father Duane Hines and niece Whitney Wheelright.
Craig died in his home in Fargo, ND on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. He had been suffering from cancer.
A Celebration of Life will be hosted by his family at the Senior Citizens Center in Barnesville, Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 1:00 PM. . Online memories and condolences may be shared at www.KorsmoFuneralService.com
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