Robert Jackson

A wonderful father, grandfather and husband has peacefully passed on at Bickford Senior Living Center after a lengthy progression from Alzheimer's at the age of 82 on August 3, 2025. Craig was born November 13, 1942, in Kalamazoo, MI to Robert and Virginia Jackson. He graduated from Kalamazoo Central High in 1960 and was drafted July 9, 1964, into the U.S. Army, serving 2 years in noncombat military service stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War. In the late 1960's he met and married the love of his life, the former Carol Van Erkel of Kalamazoo, MI and they shared many happy years together.

In 1978, Craig co-founded and was co-owner of Westside Autobody until 1997 when he retained sole ownership for several years. Westside continued the focus of quality and exceptional service until Craig decided to enjoy the relaxation of retirement and sold the company to his son, Rob, daughter, Julie, and employee, Pete; Autobody USA continued its focal point on customer satisfaction and expanded exponentially over the years. Craig will fondly be remembered for his kindness, keen business sense, humor and fairness.

Craig was a Richland and Gull Lake resident for over 40 years, as well as, a snowbird in Fort Myers, FL. His most notable memories were times spent among family and friends, his devoted hunting season and stories annually with buddies, the Detroit Tigers and his dogs.

He was preceded in passing by his beloved wife Carol, sister Charlene and both parents. Those left to honor his cheerful memory are children; Julie (Mark) and Rob (Angela); and his treasured grandchildren; Amber (Vince), Chris, Caylea, Gavin, Luke and Josh. Craig will always be thought of for his jubilant laughter, his quirky idioms in conversation, reliability, dedication and warm heartedness. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

In accordance with the family's wishes a Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 2:00 PM with lunch to follow at Langeland Family Funeral Home, Westside Chapel, 3926 S. 9th St., Kalamazoo, MI 49009, with a private inurnment to commence August 25, 2025, at Fort. Custer National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to West Michigan Veterans Coalition. (westmichiganveterans.org)

Please visit Craig's memorial webpage to share condolences and memories with his family at https://www.Langelands.com