Below is the beautiful tribute to Craig written by Jason Perlewitz, SRA. Copied with his permission.
May 31, 2022
Dear Oregon Referee Community,
I wanted to share the sad news of the recent passing of a long time member of the Oregon Referee Community. Craig Hill passed away on May 20, 2022, at the age of 73 after an extended period of serious health issues.
Craig touched so many people in the referee community and beyond during his long service to the game. It was through his warmth, generosity, and empathetic spirit that he was able to better the lives and referee careers of so many who had the fortune to interact with him. Craig was a long time referee working at the highest levels of the game. He was a founding member of OISOA (the Oregon chapter of the college officials association), president of MISOA (the Portland chapter of the high school association), an instructor, an assessor, ombudsman, and mentor to many. Most recently Craig served as the State Referee Administrator for Oregon, and for his many contributions, Craig was recognized as a USSF Lifetime Member in 2008.
Craig will long be remembered for his positive attitude, kind spirit, generosity to give back, and positive influence on so many in the community. Personally, I will always remember the encouragement he gave to me as I was an aspiring official and showing me the support to ready me for the professional game. I know I speak for the broader community when I say that his loss is profound and will be felt by many, but that his spirit will long endure.
Craig's family is planning a celebration of life in the next couple of months. Details will be shared when they are available.
Please join me in extending the referee community's condolences to Craig's wife, Anne, and to the rest of his family in this difficult time and keep them in our hearts and thoughts.
Sincerely,
Jason Perlewitz
State Referee Administrator - Oregon