Craige B. Conibear

Craige B. Conibear, 82, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2026. Born on February 23, 1944, in Batavia, New York, Craige lived a life marked by resilience, devotion to family, and a quiet determination that carried him through hardship and change. He will be remembered as a loving father, a bit stubborn in all the best ways, and above all, a good dad.

Craige proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy, an experience that shaped his sense of duty, discipline, and loyalty. In his younger years, he embraced the open road and the camaraderie of fellow riders as part of the Goldwing Road Riders Association, combining his love of motorcycles with a deep appreciation for friendship and adventure. He was also a man of faith, grounded in his Baptist beliefs, which sustained him through life’s many challenges.

Those who knew Craige will remember his many passions. He loved the roar and rush of NASCAR Sundays, the freedom of a long ride, the simple pleasure of camping under the stars, and the constant companionship of the dogs who shared his home. Dosey and Cinderbear were not just pets to him, but trusted friends and sources of great comfort and joy. Craige was known, too, as a great collector of “things”—he saw value where others might see clutter, and he delighted in finding purpose for what others would throw away.

One of his proudest personal achievements came at the age of 50, when he went back to school to earn his high school diploma. That accomplishment reflected the quiet perseverance that defined him, as did his participation in Parkinson Foundation programs such as Punch Works, where he continued to push himself and stay engaged despite health challenges.

Family was always at the center of Craige’s world. He is survived by his son, Candy Ray Conibear, and daughter-in-law, Carla Conibear; his beloved grandson, Joshua Conibear; his brothers, Donald Dial and wife Chris, and Jimmy Dial; and several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and grandchildren he cherished deeply. Some of his fondest moments were spent fishing with his son, sharing stories about growing up and the hardships he overcame, using those quiet hours on the water to pass along his wisdom and love.

Craige’s oft-repeated words—“Don’t waste that. Don’t throw that away. It can be fixed; we don’t need to spend money”—were more than just frugality. They were a philosophy: cherish what you have, care for what you’re given, and find value in the people, memories, and small blessings that make up a life. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him.