Marvin S. Crites

Marvin S. Crites, 92 years old, passed away at home in Arvada, CO surrounded by his loving family on October 2, 2023. Marvin was born to William and Leonora Crites on November 2, 1931, near Wheat Ridge, CO. He was a loving and supportive father and husband to his four children and wife of 65 years.

In 1950 he graduated from Arvada High School. In his senior year he took first place in pole-vaulting at the High School state meet. From there he enlisted in the Navy and served during the Korean Conflict. After serving his county, he returned home to find that the girl next door had grown up. In his words he would say, “I liked what I saw”. After dating for two years, they married and had the joy of celebrating 65 years of marriage together this past April.

Marv began his career in the upholstery field at the Denver Rio Grande. During his time there, he learned how to renovate railroad passenger cars which included upholstering passenger and caboose seats and sewing drapes that hung in these cars. After leaving the Rio Grande he went to work at Pfannenstiel Designs, a furniture manufacturer in Denver. This is where he learned the art of upholstering furniture. He later went into business for himself upholstering furniture for clients and decorators throughout the Denver area. Over the years Marv enjoyed many outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and hunting. Many family memories were made while camping and fishing at Willow Creek. He played and coached both men and women’s softball well into his 60’s. He was an avid antique stove collector and restorer. To this day he still has over 200 stoves in his collection. He belonged to the Antique Stove Association where he met and became friends with many other stove collectors who had the same passion as he did.

Marv is survived by his wife Bonnie Crites, his daughter Laureen (Greg) Mooney, son Kevin (Cassy) Crites, daughter LeJeane (Matt) Maske, and daughter Rhonda Crites. Grandchildren, Jeffrey (Liz) Mooney, Jessica (Rex) Emery, Jason (Amy) Mooney, Caleb (Morgan) Crites, Joshua (Kate) Crites, Sydney Crites, Rachel, Connor, and Whitney Maske. Great

Grandchildren Hannah Mooney, Brielle Emery, Emma Mooney, Mila Emery, Skyler Mooney.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William D. Crites and Leonora B. (Hammett) Crites, and brother David M. Crites. Silent born grandchild, Cameron Jacob Maske.

As per Marv’s wishes, private services will be held. In lieu of flowers, please plant a tree in his memory, as he loved trees.