John Francis Crimmins, of Seaford passed away on Dec. 18, 2024. After 95 years of life, he died peacefully in his own home, watched over by two of his children. Throughout his life, whenever he saw something that needed to be done, John did it: usually without discussion, always without any dawdling or fanfare. He was a “measure twice, cut once” kind of guy. And he could always be counted on to put in the extra effort, to not only finish, but make sure that he and everyone else on the team gave it their best.
John was born in South Orange, NJ. After finishing high school, he enlisted and served in Korea during the war. John worked in demolitions but was fond of saying that he spent more time playing baseball for the Army. When his time with the Army Corps of Engineers was over, PFC Crimmins returned to New Jersey and went to work for the phone company. He married his high school sweetheart, Marion Karg, in 1952. The couple had their first two children, Dave and CarolSue, in Brick, NJ before moving to Seaford in 1964. Their third child, Denice, was born a year later.
John and Marion opened a store on High Street in Seaford called the City News Agency with newspapers, magazines and a lunch counter upstairs, and a pet shop downstairs. He later worked for Crimmins Vending, before transitioning into a career as a professional glazier. John spent more than 30 years installing and repairing glass in commercial and residential spaces up and down the East Coast.
In 1994, John turned 65, retired, and became a grandfather for the first time. He spent his retirement with his family, and in his workshop and garden. His family and friends greatly enjoyed the fruits of his labors, eating well at harvest time, and adorning their homes (or barracks) and offices with some of his beautiful wooden creations. No holiday is complete without John’s wooden decorations.
John was a wonderful, dedicated husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, whose mentorship included every young person in range – especially at his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events. His instructions and encouragement could be heard across the field/pool/arena (much to Marion’s chagrin). As he got older, the “young people” who needed his guidance grew to include everyone with whom he came into contact. But his advice was always given with good intentions and a liberal dose of humor. He really enjoyed teasing just about everyone he met.
John was predeceased by Marion, his wife of 69 years, and his daughter CarolSue. He is survived by his children: son Dave Crimmins and his wife, Katy; daughter Denice Cordrey; and his grandchildren: CPT Maddie Crimmins; SGT Jay (John L.) Crimmins; Logan Cordrey and her fiancé, CPL Joshua Repp; SSgt Cameron Cordrey and his wife, Haley; and two great-grandchildren: Cooper and Cohen Cordrey.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Canines Assisting Service Heroes (C.A.S.H.), at www.k9ash.org or Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 850, PO Box 1718, Dover DE 19903.
A Memorial Mass took place on Tuesday, Dec. 31 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Seaford. Immediately following services, interment took place at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro.
To leave a condolence visit www.cranstonfuneralhome.com.