Garrie Crider Obituary

In Loving Memory of Garrie Lee Crider
March 4, 1939 – July 10, 2025
Garrie Lee Crider, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025. Born at home on March 4, 1939, on the family farm near St. Joseph Missouri, Garrie was the embodiment of quiet strength, perseverance, and enduring love.
From a young age, Garrie displayed a remarkable athletic talent, especially on the basketball court. His passion for the game carried him through his high school years, where he became a star athlete admired by many. He went on to attend Northwest Missouri State University, where he not only earned his degree in business, and also met his first wife, Valerie Johnson. Together, they raised two daughters, Kimberly Dahlquist and Stacey Johnson.
Garrie began his career as a high school business teacher but soon found his calling in the insurance industry. He joined American Family Insurance, where he would dedicate 35 years of his life, rising through the ranks to become a Regional Claims Manager overseeing operations across several states. His work ethic, integrity, and commitment to helping others left a lasting impression on colleagues and clients alike.
An avid golfer, skier, hiker, and softball player in his younger years, Garrie embraced the outdoors and led an active life. When a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis made physical pursuits more challenging, he redirected his energy into woodcarving and furniture refinishing-crafts he pursued with patience, creativity, and care.
Garrie raised his family in Littleton, Colorado, where he embraced Colorado's active lifestyle. Later, he moved to Tucson, Arizona with his beloved second wife, Gloria Plyler Crider. Together they enjoyed over 45 years of marriage and found peace and joy in the beauty of the desert landscape and the simple pleasures of everyday life made extra special by the beloved Yorkshire Terriers they welcomed into their home.
Garrie is survived by his devoted wife, Gloria Crider; his daughters, Kimberly Dahlquist and Stacey Johnson; and his cherished grandson, Drew Edward Harte Johnson. He will be remembered for his warm smile, gentle wisdom, dry humor, quick wit and the steady love he gave to his family and friends.
In honoring Garrie's life, may we carry forward his spirit of quiet perseverance and the joy he found in both great adventures and quiet moments.
A private family gathering will be held to celebrate Garrie's life. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in Garrie's memory.
Click this link to view additional details about Garrie's Services: https://my.gather.app/remember/garrie-crider