Garry Lee Critchlow

     JUNE 16, 1936 - DECEMBER 07, 2024

     Garry Lee Critchlow, son of Howard and Eileen Critchlow, was born in Topeka and passed at the age of
88 on December 7, 2024.
     Graduating from Highland Park HS in Topeka, Garry entered the Air Force on his 19th birthday, June
16, 1955, being honorably discharged February 28, 1959 and continuing with the AF Reserve until March 7,
1962. He was sent to Sheppard AFB for schooling as an ACFT Engine Mechanic and stationed in both Yokota
AFB, Japan and Thule Air Base (now known as Pituffik Space Base),Greenland.
     Garry worked 37 years for Flexel, formerly DuPont, in the casting area; transferring to security before
retiring in 1996. He also served as a member of the on-site DuPont Fire Brigade for many years.
Having served 25 years as a volunteer with the Soldier Township Fire Department, Garry was an EMT
and, as a First Responder, always responded no matter what time, day, dinner or holiday (our children knew
when that pager went off, he was outta there!). Garry’s last position held with the department was as Safety
Captain. His family is so proud of his work as a First Responder…he was always there to help so many people
in one of their worst life events. Garry was instrumental in the growth of the then small department and loved
every minute of his service to the community. He retired in 2007 due to health reasons.
     Garry is survived by his wife of 65 years, Lylene, and his three children Kelley Graves (Doug), Kristi
Crowder (Don), and Keith Critchlow (Eden). He also has seven grandchildren: Zach Graves (Melanie), Sami
Harvey (Taylor), Tori Brown (Nathan), Jacob Crowder, Maeve Crowder (Mew), Kaila Critchlow (James Lujan),
and Kasey May (Josh). Six great-grands: Ollie Hartness, Trace Brown, Arianna and Roman Lujan, Quinn and
Crew Harvey.
     Garry was predeceased by his parents and sisters Shirley Trebel and Judy Young.
     While there will be no funeral services at this time, there will be a Celebration of Life and an
announcement will be made as to the time and date. The family asks that those who choose to honor his
commitment to his church and community may send a memorial to Elmont United Methodist Church, 6635 NW
Church Lane, Topeka, KS 66618 or to the Soldier Township Fire Department, 600 NW 46th Street, Topeka KS
66617.