Craig Lightowler RIP
We are shocked and greatly saddened to hear of the death (on 26th January) of Craig Lightowler, a stalwart and longstanding member of the County Hospital Tent of Bradford. He was a wonderful fellow and a delight to know. RIP Craig.
We offer below some words posted on Facebook by his wife Katherine.
Craig had Aggressive Myloid Leukemia - he collapsed 10am Sunday morning and around 6pm last night they removed life support.
He passed without pain. He was cracking daft jokes and laughing with all the staff - as you would expect - until his lost consciousness. Making sure everyone else was okay and apologising for being ill. He didn't know it was cancer, he'd just felt like he'd got a head cold.
There isn't a word to express, stunned really doesn't cover it. Freya is currently being supported and cared for by her sister Kerry.
The staff from the first paramedics, at Calderdale A&E, Calderdale ICU, and then at St James Bexley Wing ICU were absolutely brilliant. The nurse (I can't remember his actual title) and the chaplain are two people I will never forget. They made the whole ordeal as bearable as it could possibly be.
I am being supported by loving family and friends. I've been told that it's okay to request that instead of flowers, should you wish to show your support, money towards Freya's Home Ed classes would be much more appreciated. You could get vouchers for Crank Studios in Morley, as Freya practically lives there.
I will post again with details of Craig's funeral and wake, which he requested to be a joyful celebration of love.
I have lost my best friend, my partner in crime, my strongest and most loyal cheerleader and the absolute love of my life.
We are all shocked and saddened to hear of Craig's passing on Monday 26th January.
We would like to express our deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to Katherine, Freya, Ian and the rest of the family on their loss of such a wonderful man.
Craig was a true gentleman in every sense of the word and played an immense part in the running of the County Hospital. He was the meeter and greeter, editor, artist, t-shirt designer, raffle seller, collection collector to name but a few of his roles.
Most of all, Craig was known for his friendly and welcoming demeanour with a seemingly permanently outstretched hand to greet, a warm smile and a friendly word all wrapped up with a cheesy joke.
He leaves a space that can never be filled, should never be filled and will never be filled.
Rest in peace Craig from all your fellow SOD’s.
Dave Ballard