Ronald Conrey Critchfield, our beloved suspender-wearing, joke-telling, gentle giant, passed away surrounded by his loving family on December 24, 2024, in Spanish Fork, Utah, due to complications following colon cancer surgery. He was 83 years old.

Ron was born on November 24, 1941, in Magrath, Alberta, Canada, to James Loren and Laverne Ovard Critchfield. A 3-pound premature baby, Ron was sent home in a shoebox, not expected to survive. But against all odds, he defied expectations and lived a full, wonderful life.

Ron attended Magrath High School in Alberta. At the age of 15, he made a pivotal decision to live with his grandparents, Arthur Biggerton and Lettie Leonora Critchfield, who nurtured his faith and helped him prepare for his life of service. With their support, Ron served a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Australia, in the areas of Perth, Adelaide and Melbourne sharing his deep love for Christ with others.

After his mission, Ron moved to the United States and attended Brigham Young University, where he met the love of his life, Sandra Shepherd. After a brief courtship, they were married for time and eternity in the Manti Temple on July 22, 1964. This past year, Ron and Sandra celebrated 60 beautiful years of marriage.

Together, Ron and Sandra built a legacy of love and faith with their five children: Terry Behrman (Darrell) of Pueblo, CO; Michael Critchfield (Shaunie) of Spanish Fork, UT; Sandy Puc (Nathanael) of Littleton, CO; Kimberly Greening (Carl) of American Fork, UT; and Mark Critchfield (Laura) of Castle Rock, CO. They are blessed with 22 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Ron is survived by his sister, Arlene Kuyten of Magrath, Alberta, Canada, and sister-in-law, Lillian Critchfield of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. He is preceded in death by his parents, Loren and Laverne, and his brothers, Daniel, Melvin and Edward.

Ron was a painting contractor for 55 years. His true passion was serving others. A devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he held many callings throughout his life. He served seven years in the Mount Timpanogos Temple, ten years in the Provo Utah Temple, and two years in the Provo City Center Temple, the latter two alongside Sandra. In 2017–2018, Ron and Sandra served a two-year service mission in Springville, Utah, forming lifelong friendships and touching countless lives.

Ron and Sandra opened their home to over 140 foster children, leaving an indelible impact on those young lives. Many of these children remain close to them, a testament to the love and care they provided.

Known for his quick wit and warm humor, Ron’s daily goal was to make someone smile, and he never failed to brighten the lives of those around him. He was a man of unwavering faith, a skilled handyman and a compassionate friend who was always willing to lend a hand—whether fixing something with duct tape, helping a stranger on the side of the road or quietly giving cash to someone in need.

Ron’s life was centered on his love for God, his family and his Savior, Jesus Christ. His unshakable faith in the Atonement was the cornerstone of his life and the example he set for others. He taught that no matter what we face, there is always hope, redemption and love through Christ.

Ron leaves behind a legacy of service, faith and love. His presence here on earth will be deeply missed, and we find comfort in knowing this is not goodbye and we will be reunited with him again.

Til we meet again.

Viewing will be held at Walker Mortuary
Friday, December 27, 2024
6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Walker Funeral Home
187 South Main St.
Spanish Fork, Utah

Viewing will be held Saturday, December 28, 2024 9:45 – 10:45 a.m.
at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
5916 South 3200 West
Spanish Fork, Utah

Funeral
Saturday, December 28, 2024 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
5916 South 3200 West
Spanish Fork, Utah

Interment will follow at Springville Cemetery 400 S 200 W St, Springville, Ut 84663

The funeral services for Ronald Critchfield will be streamed live. Please return to his memorial page shortly before 11:00 a.m. Mountain Standard Time on December 28, 2024 and click on the link below.

Ronald Critchfield Livestream Broadcast