George M. Criss

CRISS, Honorable (Ret.) George M. Sr., 101 years old of Naples, FL, formerly of Westwood MA and New Seabury, MA passed away peacefully surrounded by family on December 9, 2022. He was born on February 22, 1921 to Michael and Rose (Certosimo) Crisafi in Revere, MA. George's mother Rose came to the United States at age two from Italy and his father, a boxing promoter known as Mike Criss, died when George was ten years old. He was predeceased by Marie G. (Edwards) Criss, his beloved wife of 72 years. He is survived by his loving children; Carol A. Silva of Stoneham, MA, George M. Criss, Jr. and his wife Agnes of Cambridge, MA, Susan M. Smith and her husband Allan of Lexington, MA, John B. Criss and his wife Cheryl of Westwood, MA, Gary M. Criss of Sharon, MA and Kevin R. Criss and his wife Ann of Naples FL; 14 adoring grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

George, an only child, was raised in Boston, MA. He attended the Prince School, English High School and completed a post graduate year at Boston Latin graduating in 1939. He continued his education at Boston College graduating early in 1943 to join the US Army serving in Europe for fourteen months during WWII with the 65th Field Hospital as a Surgical Technician earning him a Bronze Star for his meritorious service in France, Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States.

In 1949, George graduated from Boston University Law School. He began his law career in the insurance industry before starting his private law practice in Boston.

George and Marie moved their growing family from Roslindale to Westwood, MA in 1960 where they enjoyed the next 31 years. George was devoted to his family, church and community and was an active member of the Board of Appeals for several years.

George was a practicing attorney when in 1979 Governor Edward King appointed him a judge in the Trial Court of Massachusetts. He predominantly sat in the Quincy District Court retiring in 1991 at the mandatory age of 70.

Upon retirement, George and Marie became snowbirds splitting their time between New Seabury and Naples, FL eventually becoming permanent Floridians. They were original members of Glen Eagle Golf and Country Club in Naples enjoying 30 wonderful years celebrating family, friends and their love of golf.
George felt every day was a gift. He was cherished by his family who will deeply miss him forever and are comforted knowing he is now reunited with his beautiful Marie.

There will be no visiting hours. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday morning Dec. 20th at 10:30am in St. Denis Church, 157 Washington St., Westwood. Following the Mass, interment with Military Honors at New Westwood Cemetery.