William "Buck" Criss

age 84, of Tucson, Arizona, lost his battle with esophageal cancer on Sunday, October 19, 2014. Buck was born in Chicago, IL, on February 16, 1930. Buck was warmhearted, had a great sense of humor and was gifted in many aspects of construction and welding. His construction life spanned for more than 40 years as a heavy equipment operator. Buck worked on clearing, scraping and grading many of the roads throughout Arizona and in California. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and canoeing in the White Mountains. Buck was an exceptional sports fan of the Atlanta Braves, Dallas Cowboys, but truth be told, his favorite game to watch were little league baseball. More than anything, Buck loved the cowboy life. He was a proud member of The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and in 1948 he won his first Championship belt buckle for Bareback Riding in Denton, TX. In his later years he enjoyed riding his horse "Doc" or reading western literature. Buck spent the last 27 years sober, dedicated to sponsoring, mentoring and making positive influences to those in need. Buck will be remembered in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His daughter, Dawn Ellen Eden precedes Buck in death. He is survived by his son, Brett Criss; daughter, Beth Ann Law (Steve); seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Viewing will be held this Sunday, October 26, 2014 at the EAST LAWN PALMS MORTUARY at 2:00 p.m. A Memorial Service to follow at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Northwest Alano Club, 3120 W. Curtis Rd, Tucson, AZ 85705.