Craig E. Booher, Md

Craig E. Booher, MD., 97, of Rockford, IL and formerly of Grand Rapids, MI passed away Tuesday, January 17, 2017 in his home. Born November 30, 1919 in Lewiston, Idaho the son of Arlie and Ruth (Craig) Booher, he graduated from Indiana University and St. Louis University School of Medicine. Veteran of WWII, Craig served in the US Navy on the USS Astoria CL90. He married his first wife, Alwyn Miller, in 1943, who passed away in 1999. He then married Elinor M. Goodwin in 2011, who died in 2016. From 1952-1972 he had a pediatric practice in Grand Rapids and later served as the Director of Medical Education at Blodgett Hospital. He was recruited to help found the University of Illinois, School of Medicine at Rockford, and served as the Associate Dean from 1972 – 1989 and Acting Dean in 1975. After retirement, he was proud to support the Center for Learning in Retirement - Rock Valley College. Throughout his life, Craig took time to enjoy sailing, flying, playing golf and bridge with friends, and traveling. He was a member of Park Congregational Church in Grand Rapids, MI, and the Second Congregational Church in Rockford, IL.
Survivors include his sons, Steve (Julie) Booher of MI. and Robert (Peggy) Booher of MD; daughter by choice, Kathy Andersen of IL; John (Pam) Goodwin of IL; Sally (Steve) Fairchild of WI and Dennis (Joan) Goodwin of CO.; grandchildren, Steve (Anna) Jr., Sarah (Keith) Rothstein, Amy (Brian) Wright, Brian (Dina) Booher, Adam Booher, Melissa (Ron) Turner, Kelly (Brian) Zick and Carly (Dan) Zaeske; 8 great grandchildren; niece, Elaine Archanbeau, and great nephew, Jordan Running. Preceded in death by his 1st and 2nd wives and sister, Betty Gorski. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Transitions Hospice, his friends and many staff at Siena, especially his caregiver Ajoke Adewale (“AJ”).
We will forever remember Craig’s wisdom, strength, guidance, smile and unconditional love of his family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Kidney Foundation. Express online condolences at: www.fitzgeraldfh.com.