Craig D. Grimes, age 65, of Topeka, KS, passed away on Thursday, April 10, 2025.
He was born the son of Donald E. and Thelma J. (Evert) Grimes on June 12, 1959, in Topeka, KS. On April 23, 1988, Craig married his beloved sweetheart, Myra McMurphy in Topeka, KS. Together, they shared almost 37 years of marriage.
After graduating Topeka West in 1977 and completing his education in drafting at Vo-Tech, Craig started his working career as an independent owner and operator of Grimes Painting. He successfully ran his business as a painter, trimmer, and all-around handyman for 35 plus years. He was dedicated to his business, customers and the craftsmanship he exemplified in every project.
In his spare time, you could find Craig rocking out to various 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s rock music and creating custom wood items as a woodworker. He enjoyed all sports, especially baseball, football, and hockey. His favorite was spending time with his family and sharing a Godfather’s Pizza. Craig was a cherished father to his son and daughter, but his grandchildren held a special place in his heart. Later in life, he adored babysitting, being called “Papa” and spoiling his grandchildren. He will be remembered for his quick wit, humor and his kind nature.
Survivors include his wife, Myra Grimes; daughter, Lauren Musick (Thomas); son, Alex Grimes; his three favorite grandchildren, Adalyn, Kameron, and Myles Musick. Other survivors include his sister, Diane Hammett; sister-in-law, Tonda Huff; sister-in-law, Ronda Haverkamp (Joe); sister-in-law, RoseMary Blankenship (Flint); brother-in-law, John McMurphy (Cheryl); and sister-in-law, Joan Waegelein (Jim), and several nieces and nephews.
Craig was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law, Jim Hammett; and father & mother-in-law, Bill and Rosalie McMurphy.
He will lie in state on Friday, April 25, 2025, from 5-7:00 P.M., with a rosary being prayed at 6:00 P.M., at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 A.M., on Saturday, April 26, at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church with lunch to follow. Cremation will follow after the services.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Craig’s memory to the National MS Society, P.O. Box 91891, Washington D.C., 20090-1891; Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 1800 SW Stone Ave., Topeka, KS 66604; and/or Shawnee County Suicide Prevention Coalition (SCSPC) P.O. Box 66604-6923. Contributions can be left or mailed to the funeral home.
