Eugene Robert Criss

Age 63, while surrounded by his loving family, went home to the open arms of his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. After a brief battle with cancer, he went to his reward on Monday, August 2, 2010. Eugene was a faithful, born again Christian servant, serving for many decades in the Bus Ministry, as well as a Sunday School Teacher and church deacon. He was a former dedicated and long time employee of the Elmira Star Gazette. Eugene is the son of Doris (Kinner) Criss and the late Arleigh B. Criss of Pine City, NY. His infant brother, Philip also preceded himi in death. He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Mary Ellen (Hess); sons, Eugene Jr. and Brian (Rose); "the apple of his eye", his only grandchild, Heather and his brother, David, as well as numerous other relatives. His faithful dog and companion, "Babydoll" also survives him. Family and friends are invited to call at the Olthof Funeral Home, Inc., 10050 Pennsylvania Avenue, Elmira/Southport, NY on Friday, August 6, 2010 from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Funeral services honoring his life and celebrating his memory will take place on Saturday, August 7, 2010 in the Lighthouse Baptist Church, 209 Gardner Road, Horseheads, NY 14845 at 1:00 pm. His pastor and friend the Reverend Richard Hack will officiate. A 'Candle of Remebrance' may be left for his family in obituaries atwww.olthof.com.