1973 ~ Craig Nicholas Zilkowski ~ 2026 "If you truly knew Craig in his later years, at times he could be somewhat cranky and demanding but understandably so. He also possessed a humorous side with a great laugh. He loved all dogs, especially his Bella #1 and Bella #2, they were his joy."

Craig Nicholas Zilkowski of Red Deer, Alberta passed away Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre at the age of 53 years.

Craig was born March 12, 1973, in Red Deer to parents, Dorothy and Bernie Zilkowski, along with his twin brother, Clinton. Craig was the baby of the family by 14 minutes. He had 3 other siblings, Charlene (Laverne McMann), Corinna (Mike Schmidt) and Tammy (Casey MacDonald).

Craig spent the majority of his life living on his own, facing many health issues. Beginning with Hodgkins Lymphoma in his teen years.

During his working career he enjoyed being a truck driver for various oilfield and concrete companies as well as the City of Calgary. In 2012 a tragic workplace accident left him with a disabling injury which limited his working abilities.

In 2014 he had open heart surgery and recovered. Sadly, later that same year, Craig was diagnosed with Primary Progressive MS quickly losing his ability to walk and drive. In 2023 no longer able to live independently, it became necessary to move into a care facility.

Craig’s final battle discovered only a week before his passing was Leukemia. Craig met this news like all others, like a trooper, with a quiet resilience. He had the love and presence of his family beside him in his final days. What gave him the strength to continue was the pure love and daily devotion of his Mom and her unconditional support. Craig was a homebody who enjoyed gaming, watching movies, sports and cooking. His favorite foods were pizza, lasagna, crab ceasar salad and of course, his treats.

If you truly knew Craig in his later years, at times he could be somewhat cranky and demanding but understandably so. He also possessed a humorous side with a great laugh. He loved all dogs, especially his Bella #1 and Bella #2, they were his joy.

He rarely missed family functions even if it was extremely hard on him to attend, enjoying the meals and time together.

He is now free from pain, can walk, run and go fishing with his Dad.

Along with his mother and siblings, Craig will be lovingly remembered by his niece, Ashley and nephews Kyle, Kaelan, Keegan (Mallory), Ryan (Brianna), Tyler, Cody and Marcel. As well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was predeceased by his father, Bernie Zilkowski, July 11, 2012.

For those who wish to attend there will be a Public Viewing on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Parkland Funeral Home, 6287 – 67A Street, Red Deer, Alberta from 6:00 p.m to 8:00 p.m.

A Private Family Gathering to honor Craig will be held at a later date.

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com