Harold “Lynn” Crites

September 17, 1940 — January 15, 2022

Harold “Lynn” Crites 81, of Taylorville, IL, passed away Saturday January 15, 2022, at Springfield Memorial Hospital. Lynn was born in Taylorville on September 17, 1940, the son of Merle and Dorothy Crites. He is survived by his wife Marilyn “Sue” Crites whom he married on April 20, 1991, brothers Bob (Barbara) and Phil (Bridgette) both of Taylorville, sons Jim (Denise) of Cleveland, Ohio, Barry (Rebecca) of Decatur, Bradley (Marjorie) of Chatham, step sons Randy Phillips (Paula) of Springfield, Kent Phillips of Taylorville and Bryan Phillips (Lora) of South Carolina. nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Lynn was preceded in death by his parents, sister Rochelle (Bill) Pampe, and daughter Nancy (John)Rude.

Lynn grew up in rural Taylorville on the timbered land known as Kim Lake, he excelled at football while attending Taylorville High and attended Millikin University in Decatur and was a teammate on the 1961 undefeated football team. Lynn enjoyed golfing his entire life and he would say his best round was shooting even par without a par on his card at the old Faries Park Golf Course. He and Sue loved to travel but were very comfortable being home in the house they built together on the land Lynn grew up on. Lynn made his living in the construction industry, including being the owner of Crites Construction in the 1970’s and 80’s and as an estimator and project manager for many years for Perry Steel in Decatur, and Siciliano Company in Springfield. Two projects of the many he led that he was most proud of were The Crowne Plaza and Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, both in Springfield. As important as his work was to Lynn, his family and his faith in God were more important. According to the gracious will and call of our God by the Lord Jesus Christ, he lived as a Christian man of Christian County, Illinois, and loved his family and friends dearly. Anyone who met him would remember his sense of humor and caring demeanor. He will be missed by many. Keeping with his wishes the family will not be holding any services. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to an animal shelter or your favorite charity.

McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories of Lynn, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.