BELLVILLE: Craig A. Case, 70, passed away on March 17, 2026, at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, The James, following a courageous three-year battle with a rare and aggressive cancer.
Born August 16, 1955, in Mansfield, Craig was the son of the late Lewis and Freda Case. He was a proud graduate of Lexington High School, where he served as co-captain of the football team, demonstrating early the leadership, determination, and quiet confidence that would define his life.
Craig went on to attend the University of Cincinnati, where he was a member of the Gamma Xi Chapter of Delta Tau Delta. He graduated in 1978 with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Management, launching a successful career in manufacturing engineering. Over the years, he contributed his talents to companies including Cincinnati Milacron, International Knife and Saw, Gosiger Corp, and Emerson Electric.
In 1994, Craig made the meaningful decision to return home to Mansfield and join his father in the family business, Case-Maul Manufacturing Company Inc., founded in 1953. Over the next several decades, Craig led with vision and care, helping to grow, manage, and modernize the company. His steady leadership ensured its continued success until his retirement and the sale of the business in 2020. Carrying forward his father’s legacy was among his proudest accomplishments.
On September 26, 1981, Craig married the love of his life, Josephine “JoAnn” LoPiccolo, at St. Vincent Ferrer Church. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and shared experiences. Craig was a devoted member of Resurrection Parish.
Craig had a deep love for Cleveland Browns football—through every high and low, his loyalty never wavered. A season ticket holder for over 20 years, Sundays in the fall were sacred. He also enjoyed cheering on the Cleveland Guardians and remained a lifelong fan of the Cincinnati Bearcats, following both basketball and football with enthusiasm.
Some of Craig’s happiest moments were spent along the shores of Lake Erie, where he enjoyed time at the family cottage—beachcombing, sitting quietly in his chair watching the water, riding his bike, and listening to summer concerts at the Huron Amphitheater. In retirement, he and JoAnn also cherished time at their home in Naples, embracing the warmth and slower pace of life.
Craig will be remembered as a man of intelligence, wisdom, and a subtle, well-timed sense of humor. He was deeply caring and compassionate, often giving quietly and anonymously to help others. His generosity was not something he spoke of—it was simply who he was.
He is survived by his wife of 44 years, JoAnn Case, two daughters Andrea Case, and Christa and Michael McKinley; three grandchildren Keira, Marissa and Rory, a cousin by blood, a brother through life Jim Cline, along with many extended family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Friends may call Tuesday, March 24, 2026 from 5-7 pm in the Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home, where a vigil service and rosary will begin at 7 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at 2 pm at St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Sunbury. Friends may visit the hour prior to the service. Interment will be at a later date in Resurrection Cemetery in Lewis Center.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in honor of Craig may be made to the Craig A. Case Cancer Research Fund, current fund number 318846, at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute online at The Ohio State University Foundation’s giving website, or checks can be mailed to The Ohio State University Foundation, P.O. Box 736096, Chicago, IL 60673-6096.
The Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve the Case family and encourage messages of support by visiting snyderfuneralhomes.com
Funeral Home: Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com