Creighton Mathias Oswald Sr.

Creighton "Craig" Mathias Oswald, Sr., 86, passed away peacefully at his home on January 15, 2026. He was born on February 14, 1939, in Toledo, Ohio, and spent the vast majority of his life building a home, a career, and a legacy in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Craig was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, known for his strong character, tireless work ethic, and unwavering commitment to providing for and supporting his family. He was kind, welcoming, and deeply loyal to friends and loved ones. He was most at ease when surrounded by family and close friends, and he never passed up an opportunity for good Mexican food.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Robert James Oswald; his mother, Mary Jane Witker Oswald; and his brother, Dr. Gregory Oswald.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Oswald; his son, Creighton "Ton" Oswald, Jr. and his wife, Rocio Oswald; his daughters, Emilie Oswald Archuleta and Amanda Pfeifer and her husband, Joseph Pfeifer; his seven grandchildren: Creighton "Matias" Oswald III, Iliana Archuleta, Gregory "Grey" Archuleta, Jr., Amanda "Aby" Archuleta, Ariana Oswald, Blaise Pfeifer, and Quinn Pfeifer.

Craig earned his Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Detroit in 1962. Around this time, he proudly served in the Ohio National Guard, an early expression of his lifelong sense of duty and service.. He went on to launch a professional career that would place him at the heart of some of the most important technological efforts of his time. In the 1960s, he worked for NASA during the space race to the moon, directly contributing to an era that changed the world.

In 1966, he and Linda made the courageous decision to move from Cocoa Beach, Florida to Albuquerque, far from family in Michigan, Ohio, and Florida. What was supposed to be a temporary 12- to 18-month assignment became a 60-year home.

In Albuquerque, Craig worked as a civilian for the U.S. Navy at Kirtland Air Force Base, spending more than 25 years at the Nuclear Weapons Evaluation Facility ("NWEF") before retiring in 1993. Among many accomplishments, he was especially proud of his work on the guidance systems for the Tomahawk missile.

Alongside his career at NWEF, Craig and Linda owned and operated a highly successful Albuquerque-based sterling silver jewelry manufacturing business for many years, a venture that reflected their underlying entrepreneurial spirit and the success filled life they built together.

A man of quiet faith and service, Craig also volunteered for many years as an usher at Our Lady of the Annunciation Catholic Church, where he was a familiar and friendly presence to parishioners.

In his daily life, Craig found joy in many simple, steady routines. The first thing he did every morning was complete the crossword puzzle from the Albuquerque Journal, a ritual he rarely missed and one that evidenced his sharp mind and his love of consistency. He also loved to play poker, and did so monthly with a group of close friends for over 20 years. He didn't just enjoy the game, but more so he loved the camaraderie and time spent with his friends around the table.

Those who loved him will also always remember one of his most familiar and endearing habits: every time the family got into the car, Craig would ask, "Does everybody have their belts on?" It was a small thing, but it captured who he was; thoughtful, careful, and always looking out for the people he loved.

Above all, Craig's greatest pride and joy was his family. He built a life defined not only by technical achievement and service to his country, but by love, steadiness, and devotion to those closest to him. His legacy lives on in the family he raised, the values he modeled, and the countless lives he touched.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Annunciation Catholic Church in Albuquerque.

The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, kindness, and support which they have received from family and friends during this time.