Craig "CJ" Himmel, III

Craig “CJ” Josef Alexander Himmel, III

Little Warrior -

Craig “CJ” Josef Alexander Himmel, III, 3 years young, of Mechanicsburg, who was an angel on earth, became an angel in heaven on Tuesday, August 15, 2017 while being surrounded in love by his family.  CJ was born on Friday, March 14, 2014 in Harrisburg to Craig Josef Alexander Himmel, Jr. and Brittany Christine Sultzaberger.  Together, the three of them fought a courageous battle with cancer.  CJ was met in heaven by his great grandparents: Leclere and Gail Lonsberry.

CJ’s survivors include his loving and devoted parents: Craig Josef Alexander Himmel, Jr. and Brittany Christine Sultzaberger of Mechanicsburg; his grandparents: Craig Himmel, Sr., Frances Beers, Don Beers, Jeffrey Jackson, Dawn Sultzaberger-Dawson; and his great grandparents: Benno Himmel, Sylvia Himmel, Jean Applebury, and Karen Jackson.

CJ's life and love was beautiful and inspiring.  He was a happy little boy who always seemed to wear a big and bright smile and who never fussed, even in the face of illness.  His courageous battle with cancer touched so many lives and shone a light on the rare illness that seized his innocent body.  CJ’s spirit, however, soared as he quickly began walking, running, and swimming at every opportunity; he never acted sick.  He became known as the “Little Warrior” as his all too short life caused those around him to appreciate their lives so much more.  The love CJ had for everyone around him, including his deep love of animals, is only exceeded by his intense love of and for his parents who loved him in equal part.  CJ will never be forgotten as he remains in the hearts of all those who were lucky enough to have known him.

All are welcome to join CJ’s family when they gather with family and friends to share food and memories on Saturday, August 19, 2017, from 1:00 p.m. until a time of remembrance and sharing at 4:00 p.m. at First Church of God Community Center, 201 East Green Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055; with Pastor James McCoy officiating.  CJ’s family kindly invites everyone to bring a covered dish, dessert, or beverage to share.  Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family on a later date in Mechanicsburg Cemetery.  Cremation was private.

The family sends their most heartfelt thanks to everyone who has shared their love and compassion with them during CJ’s illness.  The support of family, friends, and those unknown has been a true blessing.  The family respectfully asks that contributions be made to help defray CJ’s medical, funeral, and other expenses.  Checks can be made payable to Myers - Buhrig Funeral Home and Crematory, 37 East Main Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.  Credit card contributions can be made by dialing (717) 766-3421.  Donations can also be given directly to CJ’s family.

CJ’s family has entrusted his care to Myers – Buhrig Funeral Home and Crematory in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421.  Read CJ’s full obituary, view his memorial video and portrait, and sign his official guest book at Buhrig.com.