COUNCIL #10762 - ST. PIUS X REMEMBERS |
James Ernest Critchley was called home early Wednesday morning at St. Joseph’s Hospital at the age of 79. He is survived by his 5 children, Jeannine Leverenz (Chris), Jim Critchley (Karen), Tricia Alpeche (Gerald), Sean Critchley, and Meagan Willard (David); his 11 grandchildren, Derek Leverenz, Kristi Critchley, Caitlin Smith, Donovan Critchley, Cara McKinley, Richie Willard, Liam Critchley, Jeremy Critchley, Brianna Leverenz, Jordan Willard, and Riley Alpeche; a great grandchild, Serenity Willard; and his siblings: Margaret, Michael, Mary (Bob), Tim (Cheryl). Jim grew up in Douglas, AZ and was the 2nd of 6 children of Bill and Inez Critchley. He served in the US Navy for 2 years. After leaving the Navy, Jim was a brakeman and a conductor on the Southern Pacific Railroad for 42 years. When home in Douglas on leave from the Navy he met the love of his life, Helen Critchley. They were married shortly thereafter. They began their family in Douglas with the births of Jeannine and Jim. In 1962, the family moved to Tucson where Tricia, Sean and Meagan were born. Jim was a dedicated father and husband working hard to provide for the family and attend all of the important events in the lives of his children. Upon retiring in 2000, he enjoyed spending many years playing golf, taking photos, time with his grandchildren and traveling with Helen. Growing up with the nuns at Loretto School in Douglas grounded him in his Catholic faith. He and Helen together made many valuable contributions to their parish, St Pius. |