Carl Craft

Carl Craft, 95, of Elwin, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2026 at Lincolnshire Place in Decatur.

Born on July 3, 1931 to Carl Sr. and Evon Craft, Carl spent most of his life in the communities of Macon and Elwin. He was known for his unwavering faith, strong work ethic, generous spirit, and willingness to help anyone in need.

In 1949, Carl met the love of his life, Joyce Troxell, while they were students at Macon High School. They were married on June 15, 1952, and shared 74 years of love, faith, and devotion to one another and their family.

Carl proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1954. After returning home, he earned a business degree from Millikin University, attending evening classes while beginning a 33-year career with Caterpillar Inc. in Decatur. Carl spent the majority of his career as a Buyer for Caterpillar and traveled to international destinations including Japan, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Denmark and England. He was respected for his leadership, dependability, and dedication throughout his professional career.

A faithful member of Macon United Methodist Church, Carl served for many years as a Sunday School teacher, lay leader, and trustee. His commitment to serving others extended beyond the church through his volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity, his membership in the American Legion Post 72, and his years as a Boy Scout Scoutmaster and Little League baseball coach. He found great joy in mentoring young people and leading by example.

Carl found joy in life's simple pleasures. He enjoyed golfing, camping, gardening, woodworking, planting trees, watching Cardinals baseball and Illini basketball, traveling with Joyce, and spending time with his family. He especially treasured his grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

Carl is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce; his four sons, Dan Craft, Brad (Pam) Craft, Steve (Kerry) Craft, and Dave (Dani) Craft; his grandchildren, Matt (Lyndzi), Jody (Brent), Brian (Lane), Megan (Jacob), and Hannah (Drew); nine cherished great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl Sr. and Evon Craft, and his sisters, Joan (Hastings) and Glenda (Owens), and one great-grandchild, Hunter (Craft).

Carl's legacy of faith, service, and love for family will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A funeral service to honor Carl’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at Macon United Methodist Church. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until service time on Saturday at the church. Carl will be laid to rest at South Macon Township Cemetery. Calvert & Wikoff Funeral Home, Macon is assisting the family with services.

In lieu of flowers, memorials or donations may be made to the Macon United Methodist Church and the South Macon Public Library.