Craig William Hendricks, 81, of Rapid City, South Dakota passed away peacefully on October 23, 2025.

Born on February 21, 1944 in South Bend, Indiana to William Van Hendricks and Edna Mae Hupp (Hendricks), he grew up with his younger sister, Sharon. After high school he served in the United States Army and went on to graduate from Purdue University with a degree in education.

Craig was a passionate teacher, beginning his career as an elementary school/Phys-ed teacher in South Dakota. He earned his Master's degree in education from Ball State University and finished as a principal in a remote school district in Alaska. He then combined teaching with his great love for the outdoors in his role as a National Park Ranger at both Mount Rushmore and Lake Pactola.

Craig was a devoted father, never missing a sports event or concert for his son, Bill. He was happiest outdoors, where he loved to go hiking, camping, fishing, and biking with his family. You would often find him at the family dining table, planning his next big adventure or preparing his next joke.

The cornerstone of his life was his family. He is now reunited with his late parents, William and Edna Hendricks, and sister, Sharon Selis. He leaves behind a legacy of love in his wife, Concepcion Hendricks, and his son, Bill Hendricks (and his wife, Katy Roat Hendricks).

A celebration of his life will be held on Tuesday, November 18 at 10:00 AM at the Black Hills National Cemetery, 20901 Pleasant Valley Dr, Sturgis, SD 57785.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the VA Black Hills Health Care System for their compassionate care.

"Guard the boat, mind the tide….don't touch my dirt."