Norman Criswell

Norman was born June 18^th, 1928 the 6^th of 8 children to Oscar and Cora (Boren) Criswell in Beaver County, OK.  Soon after his birth the family moved to Selden, KS.  While in Selden they added 2 more children to their family.  It was during his High School years in Selden that he met Margaret Goff in the neighboring town of Hoxie.  They married in 1951.  This union lasted 67 years and included the addition of 3 daughters, 2 grandchildren and 3 great-granddaughters.  He was truly a wonderful Husband, Father, and Grandfather.

Norman joined the Army during the Korean War and was honorably discharged in 1953.  Their first daughter Louann was born in 1952 in Kansas.  Soon after his discharge, the family moved to Odessa, TX where Norman began his career, in the West Texas oilfields with Halliburton.  In 1956 and 1957 two more daughters, Janell and Jeanie were added to the family.  His career would take him from Odessa, TX to Eunice, NM then finally to Hobbs, NM where he retired in 1986.  He worked for Halliburton for 33 years where he began as an entry level driver and retired as District Superintendent over the tool dept.

Norman had the natural ability to fix or repair almost anything.  From rebuilding the motor on a classic Jaguar to major and minor household repairs.  And, of course, it was always done right.

His greatest joy was spending time with family.  This included, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and their families.  He truly cherished every moment he got to spend with his large family.

Norman was a lifetime member of the American Legion.  In 1970-1971 he served as the Post Commander for Post 430 in Odessa, TX.  He and Margaret enjoyed traveling to several National and State American Legion conventions.  This association would introduce them to many people, some of whom would remain life-long friends.

After Norman retired they remained in Hobbs for several years. They enjoyed the time they were able to spend with their Hobbs friends.  In 1999 they decided to move closer to their daughters and grandchildren, so they made the move to Midland, TX.  This move was truly a blessing for all of us.

Upon moving to Midland Norman and Margaret joined St. Luke’s United Methodist Church and were members until their deaths.

Norman was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years in 2019.  Also predeceasing him were his Mother and Father, 3 brothers, and 3 sisters. He is survived by his 3 daughters, Louann Raley (Dan), Janell Foote (Ray), Jeanie Gaubatz (Steve Howenstine), grandson, Blake Gaubatz, granddaughter Autumn Jezisek, and 3 great-granddaughters.  He is also survived by his youngest brother Larry Criswell (Geraldine), his brother-in-law Ed Goff, sister-in-law Lona Ball (Jim) and a host of nieces and nephews, and their families.

A celebration of Norman’s life will be held on Tuesday February 15, 2022 at Fairview Methodist Church, Beaver County, Oklahoma with burial to follow at the Madison Cemetery.