George Critchley (Passed away 22 May 2020)

In loving memory of George Critchley, of Pont Adam Crescent Ruabon, and formerly St. Helens, Lancashire. Who sadly passed away peacefully at home on Friday 22nd May 2020, aged 88 years. Dearly loved husband of the Late Anne, a very special Dad to Jane, Sarah, Gail and Son in Law Chris, adored Grandad and mentor to Rach, Ben, Tom, James and Matt. A much loved brother of John Critchley and Joan Huyton, and uncle to Jill. George was one of a group of Pilkington's employees who reformed the "Pilkington Recs", enjoying many years playing on the team. George was a family man first and always, admired by those who knew him. A private funeral service will be held at Pentrebychan Crematorium. Family flowers only please, donations if desired may be given in memory for Ruabon Medical Centre or Plas Madoc District Nurses. All enquiries please to the funeral directors.

George Critchley
31st January 1932 – 22nd May 2020
Dad was born on 31st January 1932 in Cowley Hill Hospital in St Helens, the first born to Maggie and Jack. He grew up in the town with his brothers, Denis and John, and sister Joan.
Sport has always been a big part of his life, both as a spectator and participant. As expected, his love and support for St Helens Rugby League team featured heavily throughout his life and his playing interests were cricket and rugby union.
Dad took up employment with Pilkington’s in St Helens in 1949. Even here, Dad was able to embrace his love of sport by helping to resurrect the company’s sports’ club, Pilkington Recs, and played a big part in their rugby and cricket clubs until injuries finally ended his active participation, but not his joy of watching.
Mum’s nursing career took her from the wilds of Shropshire to Whiston Hospital in St. Helens. Here she reconnected with her childhood friend, Jean who was married to Austin…who was Dad’s friend! Mum would go to dances with Jean and Austin, and inevitably she was introduced to Dad.
They married on 10th September 1960 and set up home in Billinge. During the following eight years, they had us ~ their three daughters, Jane, Sarah and Gail.
In late 1973, Dad’s work brought him to Wrexham, when Pilkington’s opened up their Fibreglass site and we settled in Ruabon in January 1974. He worked at Fibreglass as a Work Study Engineer until early retirement in 1986.
When Mum retired they were able to explore the world whenever they wanted to. They made the time to enjoy their well-earned retirement and experienced two holidays touring South Africa.
Mum, his Anne, passed away in 2006 and his strength of character showed as he got through that heart-break and he rebuilt a life without her by his side physically. Thanks go out to neighbours and friends who supported Dad during this time, and beyond, encouraging him to join the bowling club and re-engage with village life. Dad was such a character around the bowling green and a worthy life president of Ruabon Bowling Club.
It is difficult to believe that George, Husband, Dad, Grandad, brother, uncle, friend, is no longer here to go to and spend time with. However we are so lucky that we have had a wonderful lifetime with him, however long that may have been, and so many memories that help us to remember not that he has gone but that he was here and enriched our lives. There will be sadness and tears but mostly happiness, joy and laughter for his life’s journey, which we were privileged to travel and share with him.
We wish to express our thanks and appreciation for the touching and kind words, shared memories and messages of condolence we have received. We will be holding a celebration of Dad’s life at a later date, when we are able to inter his ashes with Mum. An invitation to join us is extended to all who knew Dad. We will let you know when and where, and look forward to spending time together and raise a glass of Guinness to him.
We also want to take this opportunity to say thank-you and a heartfelt one at that for the care and support we have had from Dad’s GP, Dr Davies and his team, the District Nurses, especially Pauline and Claire and a special mention to the pharmacy team at Rowland's Chemist in Ruabon, who never failed to ask after Dad, often went above and beyond to resolve any queries or issues and always sent him their best wishes. We couldn’t have done this without you; your care, compassion and respect for his dignity and wishes were all that we asked for. In recognition of the care, compassion and support provided, donations are gratefully accepted towards Ruabon Medical Practice and Plas Madoc District Nursing Team.
So, Dad fare thee well, my word what a splendid innings you have had. You occupied that crease and made it your own, and brought your innings to an end on your terms. Go well and cheers!