Bob Critz, 81

Bob (Robert) Critz passed away peacefully in the compassionate care of Crystal Woods Memory Care Assisted Living & Centrica Hospice Care on Thursday, July 4th, 2024 at the age of 81, following a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s. Born on October 14, 1942, in Vicksburg, Bob was the son of Minnie and Carlton Critz. Bob’s parents owned the Critz/Redmond Funeral Home in Vicksburg, making for some unique childhood stories for him and his older sister, Mary. It was in Vicksburg that Bob’s love for athletics began, as he enjoyed football and tennis at Vicksburg High School. A proud Sparty, Bob attended Michigan State University, graduating with a degree in Education. At MSU his love for sports continued as he was one of the greatest ping pong champs on campus.

Bob enlisted in the United States Navy, serving his country on The Franklin D. Roosevelt from 1965-1967. Bob married the love of his life, Barbara (Ellis), on April 15,1968 and together they had three children: Jill, Beth, and Ben. Bob and Barb raised their family in Sturgis, before moving to Mendon to retire on the St. Joe River.

Bob dedicated over 50 years of his life to teaching and coaching, contributing to the Mendon, Allegan, Colon, and Centreville school districts. Additionally, he taught hundreds of students in Southwest Michigan as a driver’s education instructor. Bob’s dedication to athletes and coaching made a powerful impact on many lives both on and off the field. He was part of the coaching staff for many winning state championship football and track teams. In recognition of his contributions, Bob was inducted into the Michigan Football Coaching Hall of Fame in 1994 and the Vicksburg High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2018. Bob was a friend to all and had many nicknames, including “Creamer,” “Cream Puff,” “The Bobster,” “The Legend,” “Bobby Socks,” “Big Al”, and more. He lived his life fully, always connected to friends, family, and community, including breakfasts with his buddies at Family Affair, meeting for cocktails at Gibby’s, Cheers, Hornet’s Nest, Fisher Lake Inn, and The Hide-A-Way. Traveling Up North to Boyne in the summer, Hilton Head Island for spring break, and Florida in the winter, Bob loved golfing and attending as many sporting events as he could fit into a year. He loved sitting with friends, new and old, for hours talking about sports. Even in his last days, he could recall past athletic plays, track times, and final game scores. Mentoring was his life’s passion. He pushed those around him to be their best, and he was respected and loved beyond measure.

Bob is survived by his wife, Barbara; their children: Jill McKale (Chad McKale) and their children, Madeline, Maggie, and Brady, Beth Morris (Jason Morris) and their daughter, Kate Morris; Ben Critz (Kim Critz); his sister, Mary Pettys, his nieces Kim Cosiano (Frank) & their children Michael, Paul & Luke. Jeff Pettys (Pilar) and their children Charley & Adam. Lesley Burt (Chris) and their children Grayson & Reagan. He is also survived by Catherine Ellis, Alma Muxlow, Will Ellis, Shirley Ellis, Mary Gurd, Jim Ellis, Patsy Ellis, along with nieces, nephews, and many lifelong friends. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Carlton and Minnie Critz.

A celebration of Bob’s life will take place on Sunday, August 11, 2024 at 1pm at John Schwartz Field, where he spent countless hours coaching athletes. It is suggested that donations made in Bob’s name be made out to Mendon Community Schools, which will support all athletes. Condolences and memories may be expressed to the family at eickhofffuneralhome.com