Elizabeth Critel

Elizabeth Evelyn Critel, 93, of York, NE died Wednesday, March 10, 2010 in York, NE surrounded by her loved ones. Elizabeth was born December 10, 1916 to Raymond and Helen (Moore) Grigsby on the family farmstead northeast of Aurora, NE. She went to country school through the 8th grade and had to quit school to help with the farm work. She had six brothers, one of whom died in infancy and three sisters. Surviving siblings are sisters Betty Land, Bessie Brahmsteade, brother Bill Grigsby, and one sister-in-law, Gladys Grigsby.

She married Alvin Critel on March 20, 1938 and to this union six children were born. Surviving children are Evelyn Polacek and husband Delmar of Surprise, NE, Barbara and husband Mickey Haydel of Silver Lake, WA, and Loyd and Carol Critel of Lincoln, NE. She has two widowed daughters-in-law, Rita Critel and Diann Critel both of York. Elizabeth has 14 grandchildren, 33 great grandchildren, and 14 great great grandchildren. Preceding her in death was husband Alvin who passed away October 23, 1993; children: Ardyce Burton, Larry Critel, and Boyd Critel, and grandson Mike Polacek who passed away recently. Also preceding her in death was siblings, Irene Budnick, Don Grigsby, Robert Grigsby, Perry Grigsby, and Albert Grigsby. Many other relatives and friends will miss her caring ways.

Elizabeth always worked in the field when she was able and helped with the farm chores. She milked cows and raised many baby calves. The family butchered and processed their own meat for themselves and others. She hatched and raised many chickens, ducks, guineas, turkeys, and geese. She always raised a big garden. She liked to sew and crochet. Elizabeth loved to visit with people and in later years, loved to visit on the telephone. She liked to cook and made up her own recipes. She especially enjoyed canning and canned year-around up until her last days.

Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, March 13, 2010 at the Metz Chapel in York, NE with burial in York’s Greenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to the family’s choice.