Craig D. Zenk

On the quiet evening of Saturday, April 13, 2024, Craig Donald Zenk, age 64, passed away surrounded by those who loved him most. Services will be private with burial in Aledo Cemetery. Speer Funeral Home, Aledo is assisting the family. Condolences may be left at speerfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Speer Funeral Home and will be used to support the Aledo Fire Department and Mercer County School District’s industrial arts program.

 Craig was born on November 2, 1959, in Marshall, Wisconsin to Donald and Judith (Dorshorst) Zenk. After spending his younger years in Wisconsin, Craig moved with his family to Aledo, Illinois in 1975 where his influence on his new town would truly begin. 

 After graduating from Aledo High School in 1978, Craig branched from his father’s construction business and created his own business, Craig Zenk Excavating, where he began to make his own mark on his community. From building foundations to repairing/replacing vital home utilities, Craig Zenk Excavating became a household name in the town of Aledo, Illinois and surrounding area. Through this Craig went on to make numerous friends and also found a true, long-lasting friendship with his dear friend Karen Greer. 

 Craig not only contributed to his community through his business, but also served as a volunteer member of Aledo Fire Department and was a participating member of the Aledo Jaycees. Throughout his time, Craig used his business to support surrounding businesses, education, and athletics through various contributions.

 Craig’s hardworking hands have touched the lives and homes of numerous families throughout Mercer County and beyond. Through his dedication to honest work, respect, integrity, reliability, and the occasional wise-crack, the world has truly lost a one-of-a-kind role model.  

 Those left to cherish Craig’s memory include his mother, Judith Zenk of Aledo; sister, Kay Hedrick (Paul) of Aledo; sons Corey Zenk (Jessica) of Aledo, and Tyler Zenk (Reilly)of Lemoore, CA; grandchildren, Landon Zenk, Alexia Zenk, Donovan Zenk, and Callahan Zenk; nephews Christopher Hedrick (Michelle Hedrick), Brandon Hedrick, Kendell Hedrick, and Jayke Hedrick. Also surviving are 3 aunts: Marilyn Herman, Norma Bohl, Judy Dorshorst and many cousins.  Craig is preceded in death by his father, Donald Frederick Zenk.