Craig Cave's Obituary
On October 12th, 2022 Craig Cave was called to heaven to be free of pain and in peace. The world lost a great man that day. Craig is survived by his wife Susie Cave, son Ryan Cave, daughter Ashley Cave, grandkids Mason (Emaleigh) Pyle, Austin and Jenna Cave, great grandson Brian Lee Pyle, his brother Scott (Lisa) Cave, sister in laws Sandy Cave, Kay Cave, Coeta Walter, and Rickie Lammers, brother-in-law Johnny Thompson, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins he adored. Craig was preceded by his parents Cecil and Helen, sister Elaine Pierce, and brothers Gene and Myron Cave. Craig grew up in Dodge City Kansas and later moved to Joplin Missouri where he met Susie, the love of his life for the past 50 years of marriage. The couple moved from Missouri to Longview Texas in 1975 where they had their two children and raised their three grandchildren. Family was always the most important aspect of his life, and he would do anything and everything possible for his family including all of his extended family. Craig was the most generous man you could ever meet. He used his financial success to help many people along the way. He was always willing to help make life easier for others.
Craig was a successful businessman that obtained his degree in Engineering from Pittsburg State University where he went on to teach at Missouri Southern Sate College and set up their Engineering Program. While living in Missouri Craig was President of Tubular Metal Displacement where he entered into an agreement with Lone Star Steel which led him and Susie moving to Texas. Once in Texas Craig started his own company, Technical Machine Sales Inc., where he designed, built, and engineered large steel machinery. His company became internationally know which led to government contracts for turret missel development, auto manufacturing contracts and conducting business in over 40 countries throughout the world, including leading teams in Indonesia to help establish their pipeline system. As time went on Craig began doing consulting work for several other companies, but he never believed in retiring from something he loved.
Craig held several board of director positions at various institutions including Pittsburg State University, Trinity School of Texas, the Boys & Girls Club, as well as being an active member of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers. Craig received several awards for his work which was a testament to his strong work ethic, honesty, and loyalty to his customers. In 1978 he was the recipient of the award for Outstanding Young Engineer of the year, he was honored by Pittsburg State University as an Outstanding Alumni, he received the Small Business of the Year Award from Lockheed Martin along with numerous other accomplishments. Craig always went above and beyond to make sure the job was accomplished to the best of his abilities. His knowledge and uncanny insight led to his many accomplishments. There was never a problem he couldn’t solve. He mapped out what needed to be done and preceded full speed ahead until the project was completed.
At the time of his passing, Craig was at home surrounded by family and loved ones. He loved his family and friends and he always put everyone first before himself. He always wanted to make sure everyone was taken care of. He provided so much and asked so little in return. Craig was loved by many and will be missed by many. May he rest in peace, and we all know he will be watching over us all from heaven and still taking care of us.
There will be a private family service, but for anyone wishing to express their condolences there is a memorial book at the Rader Funeral Home that you may leave a note and sign if you wish.
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