Craig Michael Baune, age 48 of rural Vesta, passed away Saturday, July 18, 2026 as a result of injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 25, 2026, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Milroy. A prayer service will be held at 4:00 p.m. Friday, July 24, followed by visitation from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. – all at the church. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service on Saturday. Burial will be held in St. Michael’s Catholic Cemetery. Stephens Funeral Service – Redwood Valley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Craig Michael Baune was born on January 25, 1978, in Redwood Falls, Minnesota, to Michael and Joni (Zwach) Baune. He received the sacraments of the Catholic faith. Craig attended school in Milroy through the eighth grade and graduated from Marshall High School in 1996. He then attended Minnesota West Community and Technical College in Pipestone, earning a degree in carpentry in 1998. Following college, Craig made his home in Pipestone, where he worked in construction for 15 years. In 2005, Craig was blessed by the birth of his son, Ty. In 2013, he returned to the Milroy area to farm, a way of life he truly enjoyed. Craig had a passion for working on anything with an engine, especially four-wheelers. He also enjoyed collecting firearms and spending time target shooting. As an excellent cook, Craig loved smoking meats and preparing meals to share with family and friends. He found great joy in hosting guests. Craig will be remembered as a kind, caring, and generous man who was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His compassion for others extended beyond his lifetime, as his final act of selflessness was the donation of his tissues, providing others with the opportunity for healing and an improved quality of life.

Craig is survived by his son, Ty Craig Baune of Minneota; parents: Mike & Joni Baune of rural Vesta; grandparents: Roman & Shirley Baune of Redwood Falls; siblings: Brian Baune of Fargo, ND and Kristi Baune (Tyler Olson) of Minneapolis; nieces & nephews: Adrianna, Zane & Nash Baune; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives, and friends. He is preceded in death by his grandparents: Henry & Leah Zwach.