Obituary of Philip A. Craven

Age 69, passed away on Tuesday, June 19, 2018 at Robert Packer Hospital after a reoccurrence of cancer he had 10 years ago.  Phil was born in Elmira, son of the late Merritt H. and Virginia G. (Thornton) Craven.  He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years Charlene Hawley Craven; son and daughter-in-law, Brian S. and Kelly Craven of Westover MD with their son Christopher; daughter and son-in-law, Rebecca L. and Michael Morris of Richmond Hill GA with their sons, James and Connor; sister Gloria Proper of Greer SC; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Michael and Doris Hawley of Fayetteville NC, Michelle Chapman and Tom Walushka of Millerton PA,  Anita Mawhir of Elmira Heights, JoEllen Hawley of Elmira; several nieces, nephews and cousins.  In addition to his parents Phil was predeceased by father-in-law and mother-in-law, Michael Hawley, Jr. and Sophia Dobek Hawley; brothers-in-law, Ron Hawley and Bill Proper.  Phil was a graduate of Southside High School.  He enlisted in the US Army in 1967 and served in Vietnam.  Phil retired as a Correctional Officer from the Elmira Correctional Facility with over 30 years of service.  He loved to read, fish, and was an avid New York Yankees, New York Giants and NASCAR racing fan.  As a dedicated husband, father and grandfather, his most rewarding time was that spent with family.  There will be no prior calling hours.  Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Casimir’s Church, 1000 Davis Street, Elmira, on Saturday, June 23, 2018 at 10:00 a.m.  Military and New York State Corrections honors will be held outside of church after the Mass.  Interment to take place at Woodlawn National Cemetery at a later date.  Those wishing may remember Phil with a donation to the Guthrie Cancer Center, 2 Guthrie Drive, Corning NY 14830, or to a charity of one’s choice.