Criss E. Somerlot
Criss E. Somerlot, 76 of Delaware, died Monday August 14, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family.
He was the son of Raymond and Helen Cramer Somerlot, born in Marion on January 7, 1947, resided in Richwood until 1965 when he graduated from Richwood High School. A letter winner in football, basketball and track, Criss attended Ohio University on a track scholarship, where he was also a kicker on the football team. He graduated in 1970 and taught Drivers Education in Columbus City Schools. Criss married Rita Hamilton in 1969. They left Columbus the next year and headed to Buckeye Central High School where he coached football, basketball and track.
His two children, Matthew (1971) and Jennifer (1973) were born while living there. In 1975 they moved to Centerville where he taught Drivers Education and coached football and track. He again enjoyed much success with his teams.
After coaching many international track and field teams, Criss was chosen as an Olympic coach in 2004 and again in 2008 for the throws. He served as USATF Development Chair for High Performance Senior Throws. In addition, he ran high school track and field clinics around the nation for years.
He was a member of the Centerville Noon Optimist, St. Francis Catholic Church, Columbus Agonis, USATF, Ohio Track Coaches Association, as well as member of Phi Kappa Sigma fraternity.
After 30 years in education, Criss retired from coaching and teaching in Centerville and ran his own business. He was an inventor and proud of his shoe design for Nike.
Criss is a member of North Union High School, Centerville High School, Ohio Track Coaches and Ohio University Halls of Fame.
Criss’ mother, Helen, father Raymond, stepfather George Weaver and brother Dean Somerlot proceed him in death. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Rita (Hamilton) Somerlot, son Matthew and wife April, daughter Jennifer Rodgers and husband Dave and grandchildren Koen, Zoie and Aidan, sisters and brothers-in law, Beth Somerlot, Tim (Cheryl)Hamilton, Kathy (Terry) Mullen, Brian (Cathy) Hamilton and Marcia (Don) Brake. In addition, he is survived by 20 nieces and nephews.
Criss’ best times were spent with family, coaching and traveling. He enjoyed fishing, golfing and making his grandkids laugh. He loved talking to people and getting to know athletes. The man never knew a stranger.
There will a Gathering of Family and Friends to celebrate his life held Sunday September 10, 2023 from 1:00 to 4:00 pm at the Heritage Golf Club, 3525 Heritage Club Dr. Hilliard, Ohio 43026
Memorial gifts many be made to OhioHealth Hospice/Kobacker House and/or the Ronald McDonald House.
The Stofcheck-Ballinger Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.stofcheck-ballinger.com.
Stofcheck-Ballinger Funeral Home