Craig Lee Hietpas

Craig Lee Hietpas, of Little Chute, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 16, 2026, at ThedaCare in Neenah, WI.

Craig was born on February 3, 1975, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Appleton, WI, to David and Linda Hietpas. He grew up in Little Chute, attended St. John’s Schools, and later graduated from Little Chute High School. Craig went on to further his education at Chicago University and Madison Sound Engineering School, combining his love of learning with his deep passion for music. 

Craig worked as a Low Voltage Estimator at Suburban Electric, where he brought his technical skill, creativity, and humor to every project. He was known not just for his work ethic, but for his easygoing spirit and the friendships he built along the way.

Music was one of Craig’s greatest joys. He had been in a band since middle school and continued to play throughout his life. His final show, performed in Oshkosh, was a reflection of everything he loved—great music, great company, and the people who meant the most to him. Sharing the stage with his cousin and longtime bandmate Jeff DeGooey and Jeff’s wife Boe, Craig played surrounded by his biggest supporters—his wife Jessica, daughter Mary, son-in-law Harley, son Derek, and countless friends.

Beyond music, Craig loved hunting and fishing, passions that connected him to family and friends year-round. Whether out in the woods or on the water, Craig brought laughter, warmth, and stories that will be shared for generations to come.

Craig is survived by his loving wife, Jessica Lynn Hietpas; his children: Mary and Harley Boelter, and Derek Hietpas and Elvira Tolliver-Grays; his parents, David and Linda Hietpas; his brothers Chris and Kim Hietpas and Curt and Missy Hietpas; his father-in-law, Kenneth Larson and mother-in-law, Mary Larson; his sister-in-law, Carrie Nelson and brother-in-law, Scott Nelson; and many cherished relatives, friends, and bandmates who will carry on his memory.

Visitation for Craig will be held at the Verkuilen-Van Deurzen Family Funeral Home, 101 Canal St, Little Chute, WI 54140, on Friday, February 20, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue at the funeral home on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. A funeral Mass will follow at 12:00 noon at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church, 411 Vandenbroek St., Little Chute, WI 54140. A luncheon will follow the mass.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established to benefit Craig’s favorite charities.

Craig left a legacy of being a legend. He was loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Whether through music, sports, hunting, or everyday moments, Craig had a rare gift for bringing people together and making them feel like family. His energy, laughter, and love will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew him.

"Forever loved, deeply missed, and always remembered."