Lakewood Craig Thiebault was a longtime Lakewood resident and public worker. The Lakewood Township Committee is saddened by his departure and extends its deepest sympathies to his devoted wife Gina, his son Chase, daughter Chelsey, her husband Alex, and their children Chloe and Callie.
The Thiebault Family Garden at Pine Park was dedicated by Lakewood Township in honor of Craig and his family a little more than two weeks ago.
Craig’s Lakewood heritage dates back to the time of the Rockefellers. Serving on the Municipal Utilities Authority, Lakewood Shade Tree Commission, and spearheading local Republican Party initiatives, Craig was a significant force for good in local government for many years.
“On the surface, our friendship seemed unlikely at best,” Mayor Ray Coles stated. I was president of the Lakewood Democratic Club and Craig was president of the Lakewood Republican Club when we first met. We bonded over our shared lives, families, great music, and eventually our shared service to Lakewood Township rather than concentrating on our differences. We will always remember Craig and strive to uphold his values of public service. He will be greatly missed.
According to Deputy Mayor Menashe Miller, Craig’s dedication to improving Lakewood was always a reflection of his deep Lakewood roots. Working with him for many years has been an honor, and we remember him today with a mix of sadness and wonder.
In addition to Craig’s exceptional friendship with Lakewood overall, my husband and I considered him family for decades, said committeewoman Debbie Fuentes. Although we are very saddened by Craig’s sudden death, we find comfort in the idea that the lovely garden has been created as a permanent memorial to him. For many years to come, Lakewood people will be able to sit there, think, and have fun.
“Unfortunately, we were all saddened by the news that Craig is no longer with us,” said Committeeman Meir Lichtenstein. His beneficial influence on so many facets of Lakewood life, however, is irreversible. Craig’s significant contribution to preserving and enhancing Lakewood’s green areas in particular is still paying off.
I shall never forget Craig as a man of peace, said Committeeman Isaac Akerman. Despite the political unrest that exists in government, his presence in the room was always a strong force for productive cooperation. The most potent homage to Craig’s legacy is our continued pursuit of this peaceful path in public service.
