Craig Allan Yerbich

About Craig

Craig Allan Yerbich, 64, of Kelliher, MN passed away on Wednesday, October 12, 2022 at Cornerstone Assisted Living Center in Kelliher, MN.

Craig was born Christmas Day 1957 to Dea (Auchter) and Frank Yerbich in Bemidji. He grew up on the family dairy farm in Nebish with his parents and four siblings: Kurt, Kim, Billy, and Cindy. Craig enjoyed operating machinery, mowing, fishing, hunting, football, wrestling, and baseball.

Craig graduated from Blackduck High School in 1976. He was co-captain for wrestling and football (quarterback). After graduation he worked in California and Texas. Later he was a machine operator at Landreth Farms. He was employed by Con’s Masonry for many years.

Craig was diagnosed with MS in 1994 at the age of 37 and quickly needed a power chair for mobility. He remained as active as MS allowed including making trips to Montana and Colorado for hunting.

Craig and Tim Brogan (cousin) formed Yerbich-Brogan Masonry. The business was discontinued as Craig’s multiple sclerosis became worse. Craig was Caretaker at Cozzi Farms for 17 years maintaining the grounds, checking wildlife, building deer stands, and watching over the lodge. Craig enjoyed photography and took many beautiful photos of scenery and wildlife in the area.

Craig spent 10 years at Blackduck Apartments until declining health forced him to move to Autumn Hills in Bemidji in 2015. In June 2019, Craig transferred to Cornerstone in Kelliher where he received exceptional care from the amazing staff. Craig appreciated company and especially enjoyed phone calls and visits from long-time friends Jim and Randy. Craig was a member of St John’s Catholic Church in Nebish.

Craig is preceded in death by parents Frank Yerbich and Dea Yerbich Paine; brother, Kurt; nephews Frankie Ferdig and Matthew Yerbich; great nephew Ben Yerbich; great niece Hannah Ferdig; and stepfather Bob Paine.

He is survived by his sister Kim (Steve) Ferdig, brother Bill (Lori) Yerbich, sister Cindy (Marcus) Bruning, sister-in-law Wendy Yerbich and many nieces and nephews.

memorial service

Celebration of Life for Craig will be held and announced later.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Cease Family Funeral Home