Craig Havener

Craig Havener, 69, of Winterset, was escorted by angels into the arms of Jesus on Thursday, November 29, 2018. He spent his last moments on Earth surrounded by loved ones at his home outside Winterset. A visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. to Noon on Tuesday, December 4, 2018 at Ochiltree Funeral Service in Winterset with a funeral service to immediately follow. Burial with military honors will be held at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter following services at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Craig’s name to CaringBridge.org, Living Waters Ministry, or Every Step Care and Support Services. Online condolences can be left for the family at ochiltree.com. Craig Walter Havener, son of Glenwood and Virginia (Johnson) Havener, was born March 28, 1949 in Des Moines, Iowa. He graduated from Valley High School in 1967 and continued his education at Boone Junior College before joining the United States Marine Corps. He served in the Marines from 1968-1972 when he was honorably discharged. Craig was united in marriage with Peggy Fowler on December 22, 1968 at Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Des Moines. He later obtained two degrees in General Business and Occupational Safety. Craig worked in the cement industry for over 35 years, most recently as a safety advisor for LaFarge Corporation. Craig enjoyed being outdoors especially when he was hunting, fishing, or working on his hobby farm. Craig was a true jack of all trades, from building the house that he and Peggy raised their children in to woodworking and rebuilding engines in his garage. In 1977, he gave his heart and life to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He participated in and led home bible studies, and assisted in critiquing Family Ministry studies before they were published. Above all else, he was a devoted Christian, husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and friend who cherished nothing more than spending time with the ones he loved. Craig is survived by his wife of 49 years, Peggy Havener of Winterset; two children, Tracy (Jonathan) Pennington of Louisville, KY; Troy (Vicky) Havener of Winterset; mother, Virginia Havener Starmer of West Des Moines; ten grandchildren, Mandy Pennington; Sarah Havener; Spencer Pennington; Josh Havener; Grant Pennington; Owen Pennington; Anna Havener; Ellie Havener; Nate Pennington; Emma Pennington; three brothers, Gary (Jeannie) Havener of Pflugerville, TX; Nick (Jeri) Havener of West Des Moines; Dennis (Betty) Havener of Grapevine, TX; many nieces, nephews, extended family and a host of friends. Craig was preceded in death by his father, Glen Havener and a sister, Brenda Saffell.