George 'Kraig' Jorgensen
Kraig Jorgensen loved solving an interesting problem, spending time with family and traveling. His family and loved ones miss him greatly.
George “Kraig” Jorgensen, dedicated husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away unexpectedly May 23, 2025, at the age of 80. His passing was sudden and swift, much as he had always hoped for.
Born on July 27, 1944, in Grinnell, Iowa, Kraig was the son of Stan and Helen. He graduated from Idaho Falls High School in 1962 and went on to attend Montana State University in Bozeman, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology in 1967.
Kraig began his career with Boeing in Seattle before he was transferred to the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, where he supported the Apollo and Skylab missions. His work focused on waste management systems and the monitoring of astronaut vitals.
While in Texas, fate led him to a blind date with Linda Casey. It was love at first sight and they married in March of 1969. Togethe,r they built a warm and loving home, welcoming their son, Christopher, in 1972 and daughter Erin in 1975.
In 1976, Kraig moved his family from Friendswood, Texas, to Moses Lake, Wash., to help his father open Columbia Bearing, a business that marked a significant chapter in his life. His love of problem-solving, strong work ethic and integrity solidified their business as an integral part of the community. Kraig always believed it was important to give back to the community that brought him success. He served on several local boards and was a proud member of Rotary for more than 50 years.
Kraig had a lifelong passion for tinkering, whether building computers, perfecting his biscuit recipe, or working on mechanical projects. He loved flying his small plane and fixing cars, spending countless hours in his workshop restoring his beloved 1967 Dodge Coronet, as well as being a member of a local car club.
He cherished time with family, whether camping or spending time at the family cabin on Lake Coeur d'Alene. He loved boating and especially enjoyed pulling his grandchildren on inner tubes.
In retirement, Kraig and Linda enjoyed traveling the world, taking trips to places such as Turkey, Russia, France, Peru, Germany, Mexico and Iceland, as well as hitting the road in their motorhome, driving as far as Alaska.
Kraig is survived by his wife, Linda; his son, Christopher (Lisa); his daughter, Erin (Einar); five grandchildren, Matthew, Mackenzie, Valur, Ainsley and Sóley; and three great-grandchildren, as well as many friends and extended family.
He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him. To honor Kraig's wishes, there will be no funeral service.