Craig Rygaard is a legendary figure in American logging and reality television. Best known for his best role on the History Channel’s Ax Men, he built a reputation for courage, skill, and leadership while running Rygaard Logging with his sons.
His story combines hard work, family dedication, and a legacy that continues to inspire both the logging industry and fans worldwide.
Who is Craig Rygaard?
Craig Rygaard is an American logger and reality TV star, best known for his role in the History Channel’s series Ax Men.
Born on April 17, 1950, in Port Angeles, Washington, he founded Rygaard Logging in 1992 . The company specializes in logging in challenging terrains, and Craig worked alongside his sons, Gabe and Jason.
He appeared on Ax Men from seasons 2 to 10, showcasing the demanding nature of logging.
After retiring in 2019, Craig left a lasting impact on the industry and television audiences.
Early Life of Craig Rygaard
Craig Rygaard was born and raised in Port Angeles, Washington, making him an American by nationality.
He grew up in a family connected to the Pacific Northwest, where he developed an early interest in forestry and logging.
Details about his formal education are limited, but he learned the trade through hands-on experience and family guidance.
Craig’s parents supported his interest in logging, helping him gain practical skills that would later shape his career.
He is of Caucasian ethnicity and was born under the zodiac sign Aries.
Is Craig Rygaard still Alive?
Craig Rygaard is still alive as of now. He currently lives in USA.
Craig gained fame as a logger and reality TV star on the History Channel’s Ax Men, where he worked with his sons, Gabe and Jason, running Rygaard Logging, which he founded in 1992.
Despite personal hardships, including the tragic death of his son Gabe, Craig continued to contribute to the industry until his retirement.
Now, he enjoys a quieter life, remembered fondly by fans of the show.
How old is Craig Rygaard?
Craig Rygaard was born on April 17, 1950, which makes him 75 years old in 2025.
Over the decades, he has become widely recognized as a skilled and courageous logger, known for taking on some of the most dangerous logging jobs in the US.
His work on the History Channel’s Ax Men brought him fame and allowed viewers to see the challenges of logging in extreme conditions.
Despite the risks and personal tragedies, including losing his son Gabe in a car accident, Craig’s experience and leadership have made him a respected figure in the logging industry.
At 75, he is retired but still remembered for his contributions.
Craig Rygaard Height and Weight
Craig Rygaard stands at an estimated height of around 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm), giving him a solid presence both on and off the job site.
His weight is approximately 180 pounds (82 kg), reflecting his muscular and fit frame necessary for heavy-duty logging tasks.
Craig’s physical appearance have contributed to his ability to manage dangerous logging operations, operate machinery, and lead his team safely through challenging terrains, as seen on Ax Men.
His Professional Career
Craig Rygaard is an American logger and reality TV star best known for his work on the History Channel series Ax Men.
He founded Rygaard Logging in 1992, a company that specializes in harvesting timber in extremely difficult and dangerous terrains, including steep slopes and dense forests of the Pacific Northwest.
Craig’s career is marked by his hands-on approach, often working alongside his sons, Gabe and Jason, demonstrating both leadership and expertise in high-risk logging operations.
His dedication and skill brought him recognition in the logging industry and a television audience eager to see the challenges of the trade.
Ax Men featured Craig and his team from seasons 2 through 10, highlighting the dangers, technical skills, and teamwork involved in logging.
Despite personal setbacks, Craig remained committed to the profession until his retirement, leaving a lasting legacy in both logging and reality TV.
Craig Rygaard Wife and Children
Craig Rygaard is happily married to Kathy Rygaard. He and his wife raised several children, including his sons Gabe, Jason, and Burt who worked with him at Rygaard Logging.
Craig’s wife has mostly stayed out of the public spotlight, supporting the family behind the scenes.
His children were actively involved in the family business, learning the trade and carrying on the Rygaard legacy, which combined both the demanding work of logging and the experiences of being part of a reality TV show.
Craig Rygaard Net Worth
Craig Rygaard has an estimated net worth of $3 million as of 2025, this wealth was primarily achieved through his extensive career in the logging industry and his family’s logging business, Rygaard Logging, established in 1992.
The company gained national attention through its portrayal on Ax Men, showcasing the challenges and risks of logging in the Pacific Northwest.
Despite his financial success, Craig is known for his modest lifestyle, focusing on the well-being of his family and the sustainability of his business.
His legacy continues through his sons, who have taken on leadership roles within the company .
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