Stratton - Craig Michael Cowper, 43, of Stratton, Maine, passed away on August 9, 2022. Craig was born in Beverly, Massachusetts on September 6, 1978.

Craig is survived by his mother, Cheryl; his father, Ron; siblings Ronnie, Ryan, and Christen; and his long-time partner, Angela. His children Elijah and Izabella were the light of his life and his constant reason for continuing to fight this battle. Craig is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Craig was kind, funny, charismatic, selfless, loyal, and would give the shirt off his back to help others. In April 2022, he overdosed and was hospitalized twice before seeking refuge in Stratton where he was welcomed by family and friends and supported in his sobriety. Craig thrived while living with his brother Ronnie, worked hard and enjoyed summer in western Maine. He enjoyed dirt bikes and anything with a motor, cornhole, and relaxing with loved ones. Craig wholeheartedly hoped for a long life full of love and friendship.

As those who struggle with addiction know, it is a constant fight—hour by hour, day by day. As his family all tried to wrap their heads around how addiction pulled him back in, he succumbed to it. Craig fought with everything he had, but in the end—after 100 days clean—he relapsed and lost the battle. For years his family feared this outcome: heroin took his life in an accidental overdose. We are so grateful for those 100 days with our son, brother, and friend.

It is important to Craig's family that the truth about his death be shared. This epidemic devastates families, causes indescribable pain, and takes away our loved ones. There are so many others out there still fighting. Please: Lean into love, reach out, and keep giving chances. Freely give grace, compassion, and patience.

If you yourself are struggling from addiction, know that every breath is a fresh start, there are people rooting for you. Know that they believe with all their hearts that you can and will make it. It is never too late.

If you or someone you know needs help, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration through its national helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or visit findtreatment.samhsa.gov.

Craig's life will be celebrated at 3:00 PM on Sunday, September 11, 2022, in his hometown of Stratton, Maine. All are welcome to join at Cathedral Pines in Eustis. If you'd like to donate towards overdose prevention and harm reduction services, please consider donating to Maine Access Points: https://www.maineaccesspoints.org

Care for the Cowper family has been entrusted to the JS Pelkey & Son Funeral Home.