Craig Lewis Axelrod

Our beloved Craig Axelrod, 65, lost his valiant battle with cancer on September 5, 2019. Raised on the North Shore of Chicago, Craig found and created a home in the Hill Country near Austin Texas. Professionally, he contributed to the field of deaf blind education as a renowned teacher for the Texas School for the Deaf, and a teacher extraordinaire and outreach consultant for the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. His gift of teaching was matched only by his dedication to his students' families and everyone with whom he worked. After retiring from teaching, Craig pursued his love of books and reading, working for 12 years at the Dripping Springs Community Library. An avid musician, Craig played guitar, piano, and tin whistle. His eclectic taste ranged from the Academy of Ancient Music conducted by Sir Christopher Hogwood to Townes Van Zandt and Irish folk music. The breadth and depth of his music knowledge influenced countless friends and family throughout the world. To be in Craig's presence was a gift. His gentle nature, beautiful smile, and infectious laugh were magical. He was an amazing spirit and a constant source of support and strength whose memory will forever be a blessing. Craig is survived by his loving parents (Leslie & Leah), siblings (David & Penny, Hal & Hollis, Garrick, Brad & Robin, Nell), cherished nieces (Melanie, Peri & Scott Babendir) and nephews (Robert, Ari), and his soul mate, best friend, and loving partner (Carolina Gonzalez). His incalculable loss is felt among his extended family members, community, former students and their families, and countless friends, all of whom were touched by his soul and long for his presence. Should you wish to honor his memory, the family suggests these institutions that were most dear to Craig: Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (Can abbreviate as TSBVI) 1100 West 45th St. Austin, TX 78756 Dripping Springs Community Library 501 Sportsplex Dr. Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Attn: Marcia Atilano, Director https://tinyurl.com/y6ddp8co Our family is enormously grateful for the loving care provided by Christopher House Hospice: Hospice Austin 4107 Spicewood Springs Road, Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 https://www.hospiceaustin.org/donation-form/ Sierra Club of Texas http://tinyurl.com/y6d298he

Craig Lewis Axelrod

February 24, 1954 - September 5, 2019