Memorial Fund for Craig D. Sperry

Our beloved Craig Dickinson Sperry, a dear son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, nephew, cousin, friend, and colleague, passed away unexpectedly on September 5, 2021 while hiking in the spectacular Arizona mountains.

 

With his broad shoulders, huge heart, a twinkle in his eye and a big smile, Craig approached life with vigor and aplomb. He responded to the world through humor and thoughtfulness; always ready with a pun or a joke to bring levity to the moment while being unwaveringly kind and compassionate.

 

Craig was born in Missoula, MT where he spent 18 years roaming the woods, hiking, skiing, and participating in a myriad of youth sports. His time growing up in Montana provided his foundation of independence and respect for nature. Soon after Craig started kindergarten, he was diagnosed with dyslexia. Guided and inspired by his mom Mercedes’ gritty determination to ensure that he had the full support of the educational system, Craig’s tenacious personality took hold, and he took on this challenge. He didn’t just mange to learn. He thrived in school and alongside his mom, he worked to change the system for other students with dyslexia. This began his life-long love for books, history and understanding how things work. He graduated from Sentinel H.S. where he participated in soccer, track, swimming, drama and was a National Presidential Scholar.

 

After graduating from high school, Craig left Montana for Stanford University in Palo Alto, CA, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Materials Science. At Stanford, he once again flourished in educational spaces and broadened his view of the world. From these experiences grew his desire to strive for a more just world. Soon after graduating, he started working for Intel and moved to Chandler, AZ where he spent the next 24 years.

 

Throughout his life, Craig loved nature, whether hiking, skiing, or fishing. Hiking and camping trips throughout the southwest were favorite weekend activities. Being outside brought a sense of wonder and calm for Craig and a chance to learn and teach; he aspired to know the names and types of plants as well as the history of each trail or canyon. Whether it was a trip down and up the Grand Canyon, a hike on the Mogollon Rim or a weekend getaway to Flagstaff to find a good beer, Craig loved to spend time in the company of others.

 

He will be sorely missed by so many. To honor Craig's memory, please consider donating funds that will go towards the following impactful education scholarship and organizations:

 

Craig D. Sperry Scholarship Fund

Leave no Trace

Sherpa Education Foundation

 

We will distribute the funds to each of the three equally. On behalf of Craig's family and friends, we cannot thank you enough for helping us to honor Craig's legacy as an extraordinary human being.