HAYS – Marion Douglas Critser, 58, passed away Nov.14 at his home in Hays. Doug was born Jan. 1, 1952, the fourth child of Bob and Ruth (Nuss) Critser, in Great Bend. He was baptized in the Lutheran faith Feb.10, 1952, in Great Bend. He was confirmed in the Bethlehem Lutheran Church on May 29, 1966, in WaKeeney.

Doug graduated from Trego Community High School on May 25, 1970. Following high school he attended the National Electronics Institute, Colorado, majoring in Electrical-Drafting and graduated in April 1972. He also attended the Salina Area Vo-Tech School in offset printing and graduated May 25, 1987.

As a young boy he enjoyed Scouting and building his push cart with his dad. When a little older he had many fun times with his go-cart. Doug was talented in the arts as a musician in the high school stage and dance bands as well as in a recreational band with his friends, playing saxophone and guitar. He sang in the high school chorale as well as in the church choir. His artistic talents were seen in his drawings of animals and scenery. His literary talent was revealed in his numerous poems which were published for family and friends to enjoy. Doug worked at a variety of jobs but the one he enjoyed most was picture framing which he learned from his dad. His latest endeavor involved working with the Senior Companion Program in Hays.

Left to mourn his passing are his parents, Bob and Ruth Critser of WaKeeney; two sons, Douglas Brice Critser of Iowa City, Iowa, and Jeremiah Speckner of Seymour, Ind.; a brother, John E. Critser of Ellis; four sisters, Lorine (Jim) Kuhn of Kingsland, Texas, Connie (Ron) Herdt of Smith Center, Nancy (Ron) Nichol of Hill City and Audrey (Edward) Macke of WaKeeney; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by a sister, Pearl Mae Critser; and grandparents Reinhold and Mollie Nuss and Kenneth and Audrey Critser.

Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in WaKeeney with Pastor Randy Gibbs and Edward Macke presiding. Inurnment will be at the WaKeeney City Cemetery. There will be no visitation; the body was cremated. Memorials may be given in his name to the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in WaKeeney and/or High Plains Mental Health Center for respite care service in Hays.

Funeral arrangements provided by

All Faiths Funeral Chapel*

113 S. Madison St.

Smith Center, KS 66967

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Nov. 19, 2010