DOWNEY — Venna Dewey Criddle, 80, passed away Saturday, December 1, 2001, at her home in Downey from a lingering illness.

Venna was born September 16, 1921, in Cambridge, Idaho, to Lottie (Marshall) Dewey and George Fonso Dewey. She grew up in Cambridge as a girl, and attended first through eighth grade in Cambridge. She attended Downey High School, where she was active in Glee Club, Operettes and dance. She graduated from Downey High School May 15, 1935. She also received her seminary certificate upon graduation.

After high school, Venna worked at Garrettson’s Drug Store for a year, and then went to work for the Red and White Grocery Store in Downey.

On August 14, 1942, Venna married her eternal sweetheart in the Salt Lake City LDS Temple for time and eternity. They lived for one year in Lordsburg, New Mexico during World War 11, and then returned to Downey, where they enjoyed 59 years together.

Throughout her entire life, Venna was active in the LDS Church. She had many callings in the church that included Sunday school chorister instructor, Young Women’s Laurel teacher, Sunday school teacher, Relief Society teacher, second counselor in Relief Society and home teacher.

She was also active in the Downey Madrigal Choir where she served as president twice and secretary once. Singing was a very important part of her life and something she loved to do. She was also very active in doing temple work throughout her life.

Venna was a wonderful gardener. She had a beautiful flower garden that she spent hours on every day. She also had a big vegetable garden she planted and enjoyed working in until poor health prevented her from being able to do the work. Many families benefited from her efforts.

One of Venna’s greatest joys was being with her family.

She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She had a beautiful smile and a twinkle in her eye. We love you, and we will miss you.

Venna is survived by her husband, J. Reed Criddle, Downey; one daughter, Kayleen Willie, Preston; and two sons, Reo (Darlene) Criddle and Lyle (Deena) Criddle, both of Downey; one daughter-in-law, Pamela Criddle; one sister, Ora Whitaker of Downey; 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. She was preceded, in death by her mother, Lottie Marshall Dewey and father, George Fonso Dewey, and her son, John Clark Criddle.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, December 6, 2001, at noon in the Downey First Ward Chapel, with Bishop Welch officiating. The family will receive friends from (. p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, December 5 at the Marsh Valley Funeral Home in Arimo, and one hour prior to the service on Thursday. Burial will be at the Downey Cemetery.