Craig Markus Death, Obituary – In the world of advertising and creative leadership, the passing of Craig Markus, Chief Creative Officer at Proof Advertising, has left an irreplaceable void. A talented visionary, dedicated mentor, and passionate advocate for his craft.
Craig’s journey was one of creativity, determination, and unwavering commitment to his teams, clients, and the industry as a whole. Yesterday evening, the Proof Advertising family received the somber news of Craig’s passing. After several weeks of battling Guillain-Barré syndrome and its complex complications, Craig’s indomitable spirit endured until his last moments. He had been undergoing acute physical therapy at Mount Sinai, optimistic about a swift return to his role.
Tragically, new complications arose after his first day of therapy, leading to his unexpected passing. Craig’s creative odyssey began in 1986 as a studio artist, where he painstakingly set type and crafted marker comps by hand. His journey took him through esteemed agencies such as Ogilvy, Deutsch.
DMB&B, and Cramer-Krasselt, each stop marked by his undeniable impact. A significant chapter of his career unfolded at McCann-Erickson, where his talents flourished. He garnered accolades as Creative Director of the Year multiple times, spearheaded innovative campaigns targeting young adult audiences through Tag Ideation, and played a pivotal role in the influential Army Strong campaign for the US Army.
Craig’s dedication to nurturing creativity extended beyond the boardroom. He selflessly shared his wisdom and expertise as a teacher at the Fashion Institute of Technology, investing in the growth of young creatives and imparting his invaluable insights. Craig’s journey to Proof Advertising was a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft.
It took several attempts, years, and the advent of virtual work to finally bring him on board. His impact over the past three years was profound, infusing each workday with boundless enthusiasm, energy, and joy. As a boss, coworker, and friend, Craig radiated positivity and mentorship, uplifting those around him with his infectious spirit.
Beyond his professional achievements, Craig’s proudest role was that of a devoted father to two remarkable young men. His dedication to his family was unwavering, and his influence as a parent was reflected in their character and accomplishments. The news of Craig’s passing has left a profound sense of loss within the Proof Advertising family and the creative community at large.
However, his enduring spirit and the mark he left on the industry will forever inspire. In the face of challenges, Craig’s resolute mantra, “There is work to do so let’s do it,” encapsulates his unyielding determination and passion. As Proof Advertising navigates this difficult transition, Craig’s legacy lives on through the leadership and talents of those he nurtured. His vision for the future is carried forward by Claire Jordan, who has been promoted to Executive Creative Director. Craig’s final decision reflects his commitment to fostering talent and his enduring impact on the agency.
