MILDRED FECHT c. 1961

Mildred Fecht right, grand daughter of Mary Ann Secrist Crites, worked as a vocational nurse at Valley Receiving Hospital in Van Nuys, California. Mildred worked as a practical nurse in Washington State, California and Nebraska.

THE LOSS OF OUR KINSMAN KENNETH DALE CRITES

Kenneth Dale Crites

Minot Daily News   25 April 2013

          "Kenneth Dale "Ken" Crites, 71, Minot, died Tuesday, April 23, 2013, in a Minot hospital surrounded by his loving family.

Ken was born June 17, 1941, in Minot to Theodore "Ted" and Ruby (Grant) Crites. He was reared in Minot, attended Minot schools, graduated from Minot High School and continued his education at Minot State University. As a young adult he served in the Air Force.
Ken married Jean Edwards on Oct. 23, 1971, at First Presbyterian Church in Minot. They made their home in Minot, where he was employed as a television and radio broadcaster and newspaper journalist. He retired from The Minot Daily News in 2006.
Ken especially enjoyed fishing and camping.
Ken's loving family includes: his wife, Jean; sons, Jeff (Karen) Crites and Steve (Bobbi) Crites, all of Dearborn Heights, Mich., Paul Crites (Adina Denton), of Bismarck North Dakota, and Charles (Leah) Crites, of Minot; 11 grandchildren; brother, Greg (Frances) Crites, of Laurel, Maryland.; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation: Today, April 25, from noon to 5 p.m., in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.
Memorials: Are preferred to the Trinity Cancer Care Center, Minot.
Those wishing to sign the online memorial register or share memories are invited to use the expressions of sympathy section at (www.thomasfamilyfuneralhome.com)."

Our kinsman was named for two of his uncles. Kenneth Richards was the much loved husband of Mary Crites Richards, the sister of Ted Crites. He was a hard working, fun loving man who originally lived in Minot, North Dakota but moved to Everett, Washington during World War II. Dale Crites, the older brother of Ted, lived mostly around Minot, North Dakota. 

RICHARD FRANKLIN CRITES III

Richard Franklin "Trey" Crites III

(1972 - 2012)

Richard Franklin "Trey" Crites III of Garland, Texas passed away on Monday, November 19, 2012 in California unexpectedly during a business trip. Trey was born September 27, 1972 to Richard and Hazel Crites in Dallas Texas. Growing up primarily in the small East Texas town of Big Sandy, Trey graduated from South Garland High School in 1991 and ITT Technical Institute in 1994.

Trey was living his dream and enjoying life as an independent semi-truck operator for K Truck Lines, Inc. The family wishes to thank his friends for all the kind words of support and for loving him in this life that was all too short.

For those who knew Trey, you know that he would not want tears of sadness to mark this occasion. Always quick with a line or comeback, Trey would prefer a celebration of life and laughter recalling memories of days past. In his honor, a celebration of Trey's life will be hosted by the family pending final arrangements.

Please feel free to leave messages and memories on the "Treyo Critez" Facebook page and as arrangements are finalized they will be shared on the same. Donations in Trey's memory may be made to Baylor Health Care System Foundation at 3600 Gaston Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75246.

While Trey was preceded in death by his birth parents, Richard and Hazel Crites, he was survived by his partner in life, Valerie Bromberg; mother Mary Lee Crites Norman and father, James Norman; brothers Jim, Ricky and David Norman; sister Margie Norman Oliver; and numerous aunts, nieces, nephews and extended family.

Dallas Morning News   Nov. 29, 2012

WEAVER WEDDING CERTIFICATE 1876

Marriage of John S. Weaver and Elizabeth Ann Paugh - 16 February 1876. (click on image to enlarge it)

DAMON AND REBECCA FECHT MARRY IN CALIFORNIA

These are candid photographs taken of the wedding of Damon and Rebecca Fecht on July 3, 2011 at Orcutt Ranch in Chatsworth, California. Our lifelong friend Linda Moore captured these images.

 Rebecca and Damon share their wedding kiss, while Jake closes his eyes over such mushy stuff. Behind Jake is best man Ryan Bates.

 The newest Fecht family is introduced to guests under a great English oak tree.

 Rebecca and Damon share their wedding dance on the patio of historic Orcutt Ranch.

 The new Fecht family leaves the wedding ceremony.

Janne Fecht enjoys getting her son Damon to smile on his wedding day. Behind them Dave Tulk dances with his daughter Rebecca.

JAMES L. FECHT PURSUES THE AMERICAN DREAM 1949

Most veterans, returning home at the conclusion of WWII, were determined to make the American dream a reality. Thousands of homes were built in the San Fernando Valley, and many young vets, like Joe Hosler and Jim Fecht started their own businesses. Jim and Joe bought a pickup truck, acquired electrical contractors' licenses, and opened up shop. These images were among the effects donated to The Museum by James Fecht just before his death. (click on images to enlarge)

 Photo 2722 - Pickup truck belonging to James Fecht and Joseph Hosler - 1949

 Photo 2721 - left Joe Hosler, right James Fecht with their new truck.  1949 - North Hollywood, gift to The Museum of the San Fernando Valley from Jim Fecht 2009.

Photo 2723 - James Fecht in North Hollywood, California in 1949. The location was on Elmer Avenue, an area removed for the construction of the 101 freeway. Jim was a World War II Marine.

THE LOSS OF DOROTHY FECHT FETTERHOFF

Dorothy Fetterhoff
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Dorothy Eileen Fetterhoff, 89, of Jackson and formerly a well-known business owner of Fetterhoff True Value Hardware in Marble Hill, Mo., died Sunday, Sept. 5, 2010, at Jackson Manor Nursing Home.

She was born Aug. 4, 1921, in Mexico, Mo., the daughter of William Thomas and Mildred Irene Crites Fecht.

She attended 12 years of school at St. Brendan's School in Mexico, graduating as class valedictorian in 1939. She worked as the society editor and reporter for the Mexico newspapers.

She and Elmer Clyde Fetterhoff were married June 30, 1940, at St. Brendan Church in Mexico. After 60 years of marriage, Elmer preceded Dorothy in death July 6, 2000.

Dorothy and Elmer and their family came to Lutesville, Mo., in 1950 where they owned and operated Fetterhoff's Western Auto Store, later changing to Fetterhoff's Furniture and True Value Hardware. After 27 years they retired and sold the business to their oldest son, Bill, and his wife, Carol.

Dorothy was active in civic, business and school affairs. She was instrumental in organizing the Marble Hill-Lutesville Business Club and served a number of times as president. She was a member of St. John Catholic Church at Leopold, where for 25 years she co-chaired the Olde Gifte Shop at the annual church picnic. She was a past president of the Junior Woman's Club, and received the Woman of the Year Award, along with a club recognition of the Shell Award for their successful effort to establish a medical doctor in the community. She attended Immaculate Conception Church in Jackson following her move to Jackson.

She is survived by four children, William G. (Carol) Fetterhoff and Anita E. (Bill) Fahrenkrog, both of Jackson, Thomas W. Fetterhoff of Enterprise, Fla., and Carl E. Fetterhoff of Springfield, Mo.; eight grandchildren, K. Scott Fetterhoff, Tamara Davault, both of Marble Hill, Cynthia Hayes of Lincoln, Neb., Mary Catherine Hoffman of Perryville, Mo., Elizabeth Anne Fetterhoff of Deland, Fla., Cheryl Hubbard of Enterprise, Monica Warner of Bristol, Fla., and Michael Fetterhoff of Seffer, Fla.; 11 great-grandchildren; a sister, Mary Genevieve Rebbe of Everett, Wa.; and two brothers, Dr. Gerald Fecht of Tarzana, Calif., and Robert W. Fecht of Clermont, Fla.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2010, at Hutchings Funeral Chapel in Marble Hill.

Parish prayers will be at 7 p.m. at the funeral home.

A funeral Mass will be at St. John Catholic Church at Leopold at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept 9, with Father John Harth officiating.

Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Mystery Island

Ok, where was this photograph taken? Dominica? Costa Rica? Nope, from Janne and Jerry Fecht's patio in Tarzana, California. El Nino has arrived and so did this surprise waterfall.

MILDRED AND MARY CRTIES AS CHILDREN

Photo in the collection of Gerald Fecht (click on image to enlarge)
This photograph was probably taken in Live Oak, California when Aunt Mary Crites Richards was in the first grade. She is the 7th child (left to right) in the second row. Aunt Mary had polio when she was very little and was never strong thereafter. This class picture may have been taken after that event. These kids are dressed warmer than the other Live Oak School photo on this blog, so the picture may have been taken in Minot, North Dakota.
I used to know which of the children was my mother Mildred, but I've forgotten. I will ask my sister Genevieve to look at this photo and see if she can fill us in. Stay tuned!

JAMES FECHT AND MICHAEL FETTERHOFF

Jim Fecht was very proud of his grand-nephew Thomas Fetterhoff, who visited him during his time in California as a United States Marine. Jimmy was interested in all things Marine, and was fascinated with how his beloved Corps had changed since his service during the Second World War. Jim died this last year and we had a government bronze plaque put over his grave.

James Fecht was the g-great grandson of Mary Ann (Secrist) and Josiah Crites, the grandson of Leona Belle (Weaver) and John Franklin Crites, and son of Mildred (Crites) and William T. Fecht. He was the great grandson of Elizabeth Ann (Paugh) and John S. Weaver of Oswego, Indiana.

Michael Fetterhoff is the g- g-g-great grandson of Mary Ann (Secrist) and Josiah Crites, the g-g- grandson of Leona Belle (Weaver) and John Franklin Crites, great grandson son of Mildred (Crites) and William T. Fecht, grandson of Dorothy and Elmer Fetterhoff. He was the g-g-g- grandson of Elizabeth Ann (Paugh) and John S. Weaver of Oswego, Indiana.
In 2010 Michael Fetterhoff is living in Florida.

SHILO AND CALVIN DONER

Wedding of Shilo and Calvin Doner.
Shilo is our kinswoman through this lineage:
John Crites, Josiah and Mary Ann Secrist Crites, John Frankling and Leona Weaver Crites, Mildred Crites Fecht, Robert Fecht, Ronald O. Fecht and Shilo Doner

FAMILY OF RONALD OWEN FECHT

This photo was taken from Facebook on the Internet. Left top is Zachary Fecht, below him is Jaime Fecht and the family dog Ryder. In the center is Ronald Owen Fecht and below him his wife Kimberly. Top right is Calvin Doner and below him is Shilo Doner. This family lives near Lebanon, Oregon.

John Crites, Josiah and Mary Ann Secrist Crites, John Frankling and Leona Weaver Crites, Mildred Crites Fecht, Robert Fecht and Ronald O. Fecht

Death of Robert Kenneth Richards Jr.

It is with regret that I inform you of the death of our kinsman Robert Kenneth Richards Jr. Bob was the only son of Mary (Crites) and Kenneth Richards.
Bob was born on the 29 of March 1925 in Minot, Ward Country, North Dakota. He married on the 30th of August 1950 to Evelyn Walker. He was an accomplished photographer, as was his mother Mary. Bob lived most of his adult life in Snohomish County, Washington.
News clipping courtesy of Genevieve Rebbe.

MORE ABOUT OUR KINSMAN BOB RICHARDS
Robert K. Richards Jr., 84, of Everett went to be with the Lord November 28, 2009. He was born March 29, 1925 in Minot, ND and lived there in his early years. The family later moved to Everett. He served in the Korean War from 1950 to 1952. He married Evelyn Walker August 30, 1950 and enjoyed 59 years of marriage. Robert worked for Marchands Camera in Everett. He then worked at K-Mart until he retired as Merchandising Manager. He was known for his "Blue Light Specials". He was a member of Temple Baptist Church for many years and in his later years became a member of Delta Baptist Community Church. He enjoyed hiking, pool, photography, history and reading.
Robert is survived by his wife, Evelyn; son, Rick (Sally) Richards; daughter, Angela (Gerry) Edwards; four grandchildren, Aimee, Lisa, David and Ben; also five great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild; and his sister, May Lou Wicklund.
Memorial services will be held at 3 p.m., on Tuesday, December 15, 2009, at Delta Community Baptist Church, 2901 16th St., Everett.
Memorial donations may be made to Delta Community Service Center Building Fund.
The family would like to thank the staff at Bethany Nursing Home for the loving and tender care they provided to Bob for the last few years of his life. Arrangements are under the care of Solie Funeral Home and Crematory.

SOME OF OUR FAMILY IN WASHINGTON STATE

Top – Left to Right
Kent Nicholas and below, his wife Kari Leigh Jensen.
William Staffenhagen holding his grandson Nicholas Jensen (age 2)
Kristine Staffenhagen (in blue dress),
Thomas Staffenhagen (tall man) holding his son Travis
Bottom row – Left to Right (center)
Owen Lee Rebbe holding his great grand daughter Hana Jensen (6 months)
Mary Genevieve Rebbe holding great grand daughter Leigha Staffenhagen (age 5)
Woman at right Melissa Staffenhagen holding her son Anthony (age 3 ½)

This photograph was among the possessions of James L. Fecht. It was taken at the wedding of Jocelyn and Jeff Williams.

Leona (Weaver) and John Franklin Crites, Mildred Fecht, Genevieve Rebbe, Kristine Staffenhagen, and Kari Jensen.

Leona (Weaver) and John Franklin Crites, Mildred Fecht, Genevieve Rebbe, Kristine Staffenhagen, & Tom Staffemjhagem

KICKOFF OF AIDS LIFECYCLE RIDE BRINGS OUT THE FECHTS

Photograph by Chris Eisenberg
Janne Fecht hands out bagels while Jerry hustles bananas.

Our commitment to the AIDS Lifecycle Bicycle Ride, from San Francisco to Los Angeles each year, begins early. In this case, Janne and I got up at 4:30 am to drive to Manhattan Beach, California to support the riders participating in the A.L.C. "Kickoff Ride" on October 24th. We cut and handed out bagels and bananas. New riders received basic instruction, and there were rides of various lengths for those of differing skills. Our son Brendan led a beginners' ride. He calls his novice riders, his possums.

MINOT, NORTH DAKOTA 1958

Historic postcard collection of The Museum of the San Fernando Valley - Gift of Gerald Fecht August 2009. (click on image to enlarge)

Greg Crites was a boy, when he wrote this postcard. June 25, 1958 from Minot, North Dakota

To: Mrs. W. T. Fecht
17440 Saticoy
Van Nuys, Calif.

Dear Aunt Mildred,
How are you. I am fine. The paper and the post cards _______eled me a lot,
Kenny is working at a store. Mom called just now from the office, and Dad is fine.
Love Gred C. (Crites)

JANNE FECHT AT POLICE MUSEUM

(click on image to enlarge)
Janne and her husband Jerry Fecht regularly explore the many things to see in Southern California. Here in July of 2009, she checks out an L.A. Police Department Rescue Unit. This vehicle was more like a tank than a truck.
The Museum was far more interesting than we expected, including two cars used in the huge bank heist of the Bank of America in North Hollywood. Check out the cars on Jerry's Museum of the San Fernando Valley blog
http://museumsanfernandovalley.blogspot.com/

DEATH OF ELIZABETH CRITES FOSTER

We have just learned from Aaron Crites of the death of kinswoman Elizabeth Crites Foster.
Elizabeth, called Hattie when she was young, was the second of two children for to Zella (Fast) and Claude “n: Crites. She was born on the 13th of JUne, 1924 in Minot, Ward County, North Dakota.
Elizabeth was married to Seth Foster, who preceded her in death on the 29th of August, 2000.
The Fosters had two children: James Donald and Sharon.
Elizabeth is related to our family through this lineage:
William Crites, John Crites, Josiah and Mary Ann (Secrist) Crites, John F. and Leona (Weaver) Crites, Claude and Zella (Fast) Crites
Elizabeth died on the 19th of July 2009

CARL FETTERHOFF AND STONEY REECE

Stoney Reese and Carl Fetterhoff 2008 (click on image to enlarge)
Carl Edward Fetterhoff is the great, great grandson of Mary Ann (Secrist) and Josiah Crites. He and his partner Stoney Reese live in Springfield Missouri.

ZACHARY FECHT

Zachary Fecht from a photo posted on Facebook.
(click on image to enlarge)

Zachary Fecht's Crites family heritage is:

John Crites, Josiah and Mary Ann (Secrist) Crites, John Franklin and Leona Belle (Weaver) Crites, Mildred Fecht, Robert William Fecht and Ronald Owen Fecht.