Obituary of Norman Crites

Norman Dean Crites born to Byron Ralph and Leah Mae (Chandler) Crites on Nov. 24, 1952 departed this life Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2009 quietly at his home, with his loved ones by his side. Norman was the youngest of thirteen children. He graduated in May, 1972 from Burlington High School and began his first of many jobs at the Save-U Market in Burlington as a meat cutter. Later in life he tended bar, worked as a night manager at Red Front and oversaw the operations of Century Lanes. His final job, until his illness no longer allowed him to work, was at Davis and Davis Liquor. Even though Norman was a lifelong bachelor, he was surrounded by love. Norman and Dennis Oldham, friends since childhood, shared a lifetime of wonderful memories. Norman was full of life and enjoyed being around people. You could find him at family gatherings, birthdays, graduations or just out having fun with friends and family. Never a day went by that Norman wasn't joking with someone, somewhere whether a stranger, friend or family. His greatest joy was being part of his large family. One of the highlights of Norman's life was winning a trip to Mazatlan, Mexico. He traveled to Las Vegas twice, once for a niece's wedding and once just for fun. He enjoyed long trips around the countryside or wherever he and his niece, Staci, would end up. Norman and Staci were two of a kind. You seldom saw him out and about without Staci by his side. A trip to the city, driving around Burlington, or just shopping, Norman loved it all. Norman planned a trip to Oregon, trips to Denver and other places, but sadly his illness cut these short. Norman is preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Maxine Smith. He is survived by his sisters, Louise Williams of Bethune, Geraldine Moffit of Farmington, NM, Marie Perkins and Dorleene Thomas of the Denver area, Loretta Smith, Iris Mesmer and Bev Cortinas and husband Ramon all of Burlington; and brothers Richard Crites, Frank Crites and wife Janie of Bethune and R.C Crites and Cliff Crites and wife Mary Lyn of Burlington. Many nieces and nephews, relatives and friends also survive him. Funeral services were held on Friday, Oct. 2, 2009 at the Love Funeral Home in Burlington. Burial followed in Fairview Cemetery, Burlington. Memorial contributions may be made in Norman's name to Caring Hands Hospice and may be left at or sent to The Bank of Burlington, P.O. Box 429, Burlington, CO 80807.