James A. Criswell, 91, of Bettendorf, passed away on Sunday, June 11, 2023, at Genesis Medical Center – East Campus, Davenport.
Private family graveside services were held at Oakdale Memorial Gardens, Davenport. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Salvation Army or to the National Kidney Foundation. McGinnis-Chambers Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
James was born on May 28, 1932, in LeClaire, the son of Carl and Elizabeth (Irwin) Criswell. Following his graduation from Davenport High School, he attended Augustana College. He later served in the U.S. Army from 1953–1955 during the Korean War. On June 23, 1962, he was united in marriage to Claudia Lou Gress in Cedar Falls. As a lifelong farmer, James also enjoyed collecting and running steam engines and antique farm equipment. He was a talented musician and played saxophone in a jazz band, as well as violin in an orchestra. In his earlier years, he enjoyed planting trees, woodworking, and picture framing. He continued to enjoy gardening and reading in his later years.
Those left to honor his memory are his children, Jennifer (Tom Claussen) Criswell of Long Grove, Jodie (Steve Slach) Criswell of Davenport, Chris Criswell of Bettendorf, and Jeff Criswell of Grandview; sister-in-law, Maralyn (Bill) Hepner of Davenport; brother-in-law, Gerry (Judy) Gress of Waverly; three grandchildren, Benjamin, Creighton, and Rylee Claussen; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Claudia, and a sister and brother-in-law, Edith “Cris” and Harlan Hirsch.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Comfort Keepers for their exceptional care and compassion.
Online condolences may be shared with James’ family at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com.
Custom obituary