Obituary: Craig Daniel Finch

July 21, 1961 – January 9, 2025

Craig Daniel Finch, a beloved son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and friend, passed away on January 9, 2025, at the age of 63. Born on July 21, 1961, to Charles (Chuck) and Barbara (Bobbie) Finch, Craig grew up in Chariton, Iowa, where he developed a lifelong passion for learning, helping others, and connecting with those around him. He was a graduate of Chariton Community High School, Class of 1979, and went on to pursue higher education with distinction. Craig earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Transportation and Logistics from Iowa State University in 1988. Later, he obtained his Juris Doctor from Drake University Law School in 2000, furthering his commitment to serving the community through both law and public service.

Throughout his career, Craig worked in a variety of roles, each marked by his dedication, work ethic, and compassionate nature. He began his professional journey as an accounting technician for the Iowa Department of Transportation, then transitioned into a lobbyist role with the Iowa Motor Truck Association. His legal career took off as a Prosecutor Intern for the Polk County Attorney’s office, followed by a law clerk position at Brick Gentry, Bowers, Swartz & Levis PC. Craig later worked as Staff Counsel for Travelers Insurance Company, before joining Huber, Book, Lanz & McConkey as an attorney. Whether as an advocate for his clients or as a mentor to his colleagues, Craig’s impact on his field was profound.

Craig’s wide-ranging interests and engaging personality made him a joy to be around. Known for his warmth and the genuine curiosity he had about others; Craig never met a stranger. His ability to engage in conversations about virtually anything made him a cherished presence in any setting. His humor, kindness, and unyielding support forthose he loved defined his character.

Craig is survived by his  sister Wendy Finch-Levis (Tom); sister-in-law Liz Finch (Chris); his uncle Joe Draegert (Beth Largen) nephews Travis Finch (Cassy), Tucker Levis (Janna Coulter), Hunter Levis; nieces Megan Gazda (Jim) and Maria Finch; great nephews Rhys and Rhonyn Finch, Garrett Gazda and Dean Levis: many cousins and extended family members. Craig is also survived by his very close friends from the Adelante fraternity, Jerry Homeyer, Dennis Keating, Greg Thompson and Craig Elliott.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Bobbie Finch and his brother, Chris Finch.

Craig’s legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched with his kindness,intellect, and generosity of spirit Rest in peace, Craig. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.