Kraig A. Cutsforth, 62, of Heppner, passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2023, at his home. A Celebration of Life was held at 2 p.m., on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023, at the Heppner Elks Club.

He was born Jan. 23, 1961, in Heppner, the son of Kenneth D. and M. Sharon Bryant Cutsforth. He was raised in Heppner until the 1970’s when he relocated to Burns, for far too long for his liking, and finished high school in Pendleton. 

Kraig attended the University of Oregon in Eugene where he received his bachelor’s degree in business management. Upon graduating, he went to work in Pendleton and a couple of years later was transferred to Portland. Kraig went into the stock and bond business for almost 20 years and ended up with an office in Hermiston. He had a daughter (Kelsey) in 1995 while living in Hermiston. He was also a council person for the City of Hermiston during this time.

He then moved to Lacey, Wash., to work for the State of Washington for the next 12 years. During this time, he met and married Kathleen M. Whelan on Oct. 10, 2010, in Maui, Hawaii.  Kraig switched gears and eventually became the city manager for the City of Heppner. He truly enjoyed this aspect of government and the wonderful people of Heppner.

Survivors include his wife, Kathy Whelan-Cutsforth, of Heppner; daughter, Kelsey R. Cutsforth, of Tumwater, Wash.; his mother, Sharon Lewis and stepfather, Keith Lewis of Heppner; stepmother, Carolyn Cutsforth; and sister, A. Kim Cutsforth, of Heppner; stepbrother, William Huston; niece, Maggie Armato; and nephew, Joe Armato; as well as many friends and many more members of his family.

Kraig was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth Cutsforth; and sister, Kathryn Cutsforth Fulmer.

Contributions in his honor may be made to the Heppner Elks #358 Foundation, PO Box 494, Heppner, OR 97836.

Sweeney Mortuary of Heppner is in care of arrangements. You may sign the online condolence book at www.sweeneymortuary.com.