Craig Alan Pederson, 51 years old, was born on April 20, 1970, in Bellingham, Washington and was called to his eternal home after his strong battle with cancer October 12, 2021. He is survived by his wife, Karen of 28 years; his daughters Kristian Pederson Jones (Kyle) and Victoria Pederson.; mom, Teri Pederson; sister, Cathy Pederson Swenson; brothers, Doug Pederson (Jeannie) and David Pederson; in-laws, Bill and Jo Newton, Karla Parker (Chris). He is survived by 7 nephews; Grayson Parker, Drew, (AnnMarie), Josh, Joel Pederson, Ryan and Eric Swenson, niece Catelyn Swenson; grandchildren, Sawyer and Payton Clarke. He was preceded in death by his father, Gordy Pederson. Craig was a 1988 graduate of Ouachita Parish High School and a 1993 ULM graduate, where he played football and was a tight end. He was employed at MRS for 25 years. He was a high school football referee and a ULM scoreboard operator for over 25 years. He enjoyed RC airplanes (flying, building, and restoring). He also enjoyed riding motorcycles, mountain biking and skiing. He loved spending time with his family, coaching and traveling to softball games. He was a member of North Monroe Baptist Church. He was quiet in his faith, but a mighty soldier for Christ. Craig was an amazing husband, son, father, (known as cheer dad and softball dad for 23 years) and “Pops.” He was an amazing brother and the biggest fan of whatever NFL or college team his brothers, nephews or nieces were playing for. He was a “fierce” church basketball and co-ed softball player. He was always willing to lend help or a hand when needed and will be missed by family, co-workers, and many friends. Drew Pederson, Josh Pederson, Joel Pederson, Grayson Parker, Ryan Swenson, Eric Swenson will serve as Pallbearers. Stuart Melton, Phil Shaw, David Weber, Greg Andrews as Honorary Pallbearers. Visitation will be at North Monroe Baptist Church Saturday, October 16, 2021, at 10:00 A.M. with funeral services to follow at 11:00 A.M. officiated by Rev. Warren Eckhart. Interment will follow at Mulhearn Memorial Park Cemetery in Monroe, LA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to ULM Athletic Foundation and Ouachita Parish Animal Shelter.