Byron Deon Criddle, 85, passed away on January 11, 2020 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Deon was born on November 23, 1934 in Logan, Utah to Wayne Delbert Criddle and Erma Ellen Sheffield. Deon lived most of his youth in Boise, Idaho. He felt blessed to spend many summers on the farm in Utah with his Criddle grandparents where he developed long lasting relationships and treasured memories with extended family members.
After graduating from high school in Boise, Deon attended Utah State University where he graduated in 1956 with a degree in Civil Engineering. Deon later enrolled in George Washington University’s law school. After finishing his first year in law school, Deon served two years active duty at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. He then returned to law school, finished his degree, and moved his family to Salt Lake City where he practiced patent law for many years.
On September 22, 1955, Deon married JoAnne Swainston. Together they brought seven children into the world: Craig Swainston Criddle (Saundra), Douglas Wayne Criddle (deceased, 1975), Sandra Trayner (Stephen), Mark Deon Criddle (JoLynn), Deanna Naylor (Kent), Brian Lynn Criddle, and Brent William Criddle (Stacy). The family enjoyed many happy years together with boating vacations to Lake Powell and Bear Lake and trips to visit family in Driggs Idaho (JoAnne’s hometown) where Deon enjoyed being in the outdoors. After 34 years of marriage, Deon and JoAnne divorced. In December 2008, Deon married Evelyn Davis and loved associating with her family like his own.
Deon enjoyed serving as a scoutmaster for eight years, influencing many young men for good. He is remembered for his ability to encourage each scout to reach his full potential. All five of Deon’s sons are Eagle scouts and all his scouting grandsons were encouraged to achieve the Eagle rank by their grandfather. He personally awarded the medal to many of them.
Deon will be remembered for his ability to encourage others. He supported his children and grandchildren in every sort of endeavor, especially sports. He wanted them to have self-confidence. He loved ice cream, cream pies, visiting Washington DC, boating, scouting, camping, mushrooms, his kids, grandkids, and reminiscing.
Deon is survived by his wife, six of his seven children, 28 grandchildren, and 45 great grandchildren (with one on the way). He is also survived by his siblings Richard Sheffield Criddle (Joan), Kathleen Mason, and Connie Mason (David). Special thanks to the caregivers at The Wentworth at Millcreek for their patience and help in caring for Deon the past few months.
Funeral services will be held Friday, January 17th at 11:00 at 2125 East Evergreen Avenue, Salt Lake City. A viewing will be held before the services at the same location from 10:00- 10:45.
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