Richard "Dick" Perrin Crinklaw Jr. of Grand Junction, Colorado, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, February 5th, 2024 surrounded by his family after battling Lewy body dementia. Born on December 25, 1933, in Lexington, Kentucky, Dick was the son of Richard Crinklaw Sr. and Mildred Kootz Crinklaw. He is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Betty Crinklaw, his children David, Doug (Dalinda), Kris (David), and Rick (Kim), as well as his beloved dog Ziggy. He is also remembered fondly by his sister, Rose Cutter (Ron), brother-in-law Ron Gannon, sister-in-law Gloria Crinklaw, sister-in-law Judy Dittman, and extended family members. Dick's memory lives on through his seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Crinklaw Sr. and Mildred Kootz Crinklaw, his brother Will Crinklaw, and sisters Joan and Patricia.
Raised in Springfield, Missouri, Dick attended Springfield Senior High before enlisting in the Navy at the age of 18. He proudly served during the Korean War aboard the USS aircraft carrier Boxer. Following his military service, Dick embarked on a successful career, initially with Beneficial Finance in San Diego where he worked for 29 years before retiring. He then established Colorado West Credit & Collection in Grand Junction, Colorado, where he worked for a decade.
In retirement, Dick enjoyed various hobbies, including home improvement projects, gardening, and cultivating his stamp collection. A passionate outdoorsman, he loved fishing and hunting. Colorado held a special place in his heart.
Dick loved spending time with his family in Grand Junction, enjoying fishing and camping trips, as well as happy reunions visiting family and friends in other states. As his health declined, he missed being able to enjoy these activities and attending weekly church. However, he was able to attend his last service on Christmas Day, his 90th birthday.
A memorial service honoring Dick's life will be held at the Lutheran Church of Messiah on Friday, April 12, 2024, at 12:30 pm, followed by interment with full military honors at the VA cemetery at 3:00 pm. Memorials may be made to Messiah or Roice-Hurst Humane Society.