Robert "Bob" M. Crites

Robert "Bob" M. Crites, age 85, of Coffeyville, Kansas, peacefully passed away in his home on September 29, 2025, where he aspired to remain until his Lord and Savior called him home.

Bob was born on February 5 1940, in Picher, Oklahoma, to Henry Melton and Frances Mae (Young) Crites. His family later moved to South Coffeyville, Oklahoma, where he grew up alongside his eight siblings and completed his education.

In a charming twist of fate, Bob, affectionately known as "Buddy," found love after being pursued by Mary Howard. The two were married in Coffeyville on May 12, 1962, and together they dedicated their lives to raising their beloved children, Robert L. and Beth.

Bob's work life began at a young age as he helped a local dairy farmer with daily operations. He later pursued a long career as a butcher for Hosney's Meat Processing and Coffeyville Packing Plant until both businesses closed. Bob eventually transitioned to Halliburton, finishing his career with Western Publishing.

Family was the cornerstone of Bob's life. He prioritized their needs above all else. After retiring due to health complications, Bob and Mary opened their hearts and home as foster parents for over 17 years, providing care to many children in need and adopting three Becky, Pam and Michael into their loving family. His beloved wife, Mary, preceded him in death on July 16, 2021.

Bob cherished his pastimes, which included fishing, gardening, and working on projects around the house. Above all, he delighted in spending quality time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his sons: Robert L. Crites and wife Tina, first daughter-in law Brenda Crites, Michael Crites, his daughters Beth Jones, and Becky Crites, and his beloved siblings: Mary Frances Scott, Patsy June Hilton, Linda Darlene Lee, Nancy Elizabeth Burdick, Melissa Lynn Seaton, Steve Eugene Crites, and William Matthew Crites. He leaves behind seven grandchildren and twenty great-grandchildren, as well as extended family and friends. He is also reunited in rest with his parents, daughter Pamala Crites, one brother John Henry Crites, and one sister Barbara Ann Scott.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, from 5 to 7 PM at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2405 Woodland Ave., Coffeyville. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the same location on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 10 AM, with Pastor Shannon Dozier officiating. A private interment will follow, where Bob will be laid to rest alongside his beloved wife, Mary, in Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery.

To view live streaming of his service, leave a message of condolence or share a memory for the family visit his obituary page at www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com