Robert "Bob" Criss

CARBONDALE – Robert “Bob” Paul Criss, 60, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, August 21, 2018 at Memorial Hospital of Carbondale.



Bob was born on Thursday, December 19, 1957, in Danville, Illinois to Robert Gary and Sandra Kay (Sharp) Criss. On June 9, 1984 he married the love of his life, Dena Boyd in Carbondale and spent 34 wonderful years together.



Bob is survived by his loving wife, Dena; son, Robert Ryne Criss of Carbondale; parents, Robert and Sandra Criss of Mendota; brother, Deric Criss of Chicago; cousins, Mike and Doug Behrens, Machelle Long and many others.



He is preceded in death by two brothers, Jeffery and Bradley Criss; maternal and paternal grandparents; and many aunts, including Connie Behrens and Beverly Sharp.



Bob retired after 20 years from Murphysboro’s Voss Heating and Air where he enjoyed working for many years in the service department. He was referred to as a genius journeyman in the industry. He knew how to fix most things, due to having a unique memory capable of recalling various details from former jobs and applying solutions to many client problems. Bob was extremely well liked by anyone who had an opportunity to interact with him no matter their age. He was a long time member of the Sheet Union Metal Workers Association. Most sport fans root for their favorite teams, then there are those who build their lives around them. Bob was a Super Fan of the Chicago Cubs and was an Entertainment and Sports Programming Network (ESPN) guru and aficionado. Other sports passions included Soccer and Nascar Race driving. Bob would lead by example, using sports as a learning tool to inspire others. Even though Bob had his favorites, all kinds of sports were central to his life as well as the love for his family. He enjoyed hunting and looked forward to his annual pheasant hunting trips. Bob was always proud of his son when he demonstrated skill as a pheasant hunter.



Bob was loved by many and will be missed but he would not want us to be sad as he would cheer “Go Gunners!” instead. God saw he was getting tired, and a cure was not to be, so he put His arms around him, and whispered, come to me.



Bob’s memorial service will be held at 3:30 PM on Saturday, August 25, 2018 at Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale with Jerry Kizzire and Terry Shepherd officiating. Visitation will be from 2:00 PM until 3:30 PM on Saturday at the funeral home.



Memorials may be made to Ducks Unlimited or donor’s choice. Envelopes will be provided at the funeral home.



Meredith Funeral Home of Carbondale is in charge of arrangements.



To leave a story or memory of Bob, please visit www.meredithfh.com.