Lyman Crittenden

Lyman Butler Crittenden, age 86, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2012, with family and friends by his side.

He was born on May 27, 1926 in New Haven, CT to Walter Eaton Crittenden and Harriet (Rosetta) Butler Crittenden.

Lyman was a dedicated and determined man who quietly enriched the lives of those around him. His motivation and sense of humor continued throughout his life and was an inspiration to all who watched him meet each new challenge with a drive to live a full life.

He was married June 13, 1959, in Washington, DC to Margaret (Lambert) Hillhouse Crittenden. Lyman and Margaret met while they were both working at the National Institutes of Health. They enjoyed camping, gardening, hiking and reading together. Lyman also enjoyed sailing, biking, photography, chocolate and spending time with his family, both immediate and extended. In his retirement, he organized generations of family pictures to share. He enjoyed his grandchildren and always looked forward to attending their activities and sharing his love of science with their classes.

He had a rewarding career as a poultry geneticist and was recognized by his colleagues simply as "Critt": "an outstanding scientist, a kind person, the one whose model of generosity set the tone for cooperative work in the poultry research community" .
He was honored with several awards, including the USDA ARS Scientist of the Year Award in 1985.

Lyman is survived by Margaret, his wife of 53 years, his daughters Sarah (Alex) and Jan (Larry), his grandchildren, Hannah, Eva, Phillip (JoCasta), Jillian (Erich) and Hillary (Ardian) and great grandchildren, Phelan, Joseph and Deaglan. He is also survived by his brother Edwin Crittenden and preceded in death by his brothers Benton and Albert Crittenden and his sister Eunice Wells.

A Celebration of Lyman's life was held Saturday, September 29, 2012 at Attic Angel Place, Middleton, WI.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Attic Angel Place, Agrace HospiceCare or the Nature Conservancy.