Craig Eugene McGuire, 83, of Polo, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 8, 2023, at his home and surrounded by his family.
Craig was born on July 4, 1939, in Forreston, Illinois, the son of Edwin ‘Keith’ and Ida ‘Jaunita’ [aka Meno (Kresin)] McGuire. After moving to Polo in the 6th grade, Craig met his best friend and eternal love of his life, Julie Annette Gilbert. After graduating from Polo High School in 1957, Craig enrolled at the University of Illinois. He married Julie on August 19, 1961, in Polo, and together they enjoyed and celebrated more than 60 years of happy marriage. Craig graduated from the University of Illinois in 1962 with a BS in Commerce and Law and in 1963 earned his Juris Doctorate. During that time, he and Julie welcomed their first son, Mark Adam, into their family. Craig then served as a 1st Lieutenant and Battery Commander in the 5th Missile Battalion and paratrooper in the US Army. During this time, they welcomed their second son, Michael Shane. After completing his military service, Craig returned with his family to Polo where he practiced “country” law for over 30 years. In his law practice, Craig was known for his commonsense advice and wise counsel. For decades, he also thoroughly enjoyed farming the fertile land in Ogle County. Craig loved planning and experiencing adventurous globetrotting with Julie, especially when it involved sharing exotic trips with his children and grandchildren. However, he probably felt most comfortable while solving difficult crossword puzzles (with a pen) and watching the seasons pass while relaxing on his porch or from his recliner on the family farm.
Craig was preceded in death by his devoted parents and older brother Bobby Keith McGuire.
Survivors include his sister Nancy Lois McGuire of Venice, FL; loving wife Julie; sons Mark (Michelle ‘Shelley’ Brown) McGuire of Moscow, ID, and Michael (Christine McIntyre) McGuire of Evanston, IL; and eternally adored grandchildren Emily (Michael) Everett of Seattle, WA; Grace McGuire of Seattle, WA; Keith (Michaela) McGuire of Boise, ID; Sean McGuire from Evanston, IL; Katrina McGuire from Evanston, IL; and Cadet Colonel Connor McGuire from Evanston, IL.
Visitation is Friday, January 13, 2023, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Polo Family Funeral Home, 110 E. Dixon St., Polo, IL. The funeral service is Saturday, January 14, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Faith United Methodist Church, 702 E. Dixon St., Polo, IL. Graveside services will follow the service at Fairmount Cemetery, also in Polo. A lunch will be served at the church after the graveside service to allow time to reminisce with family and friends.
Memorials may be directed in his name.
Condolences may be sent to pffh.condolences@gmail.com.
