Pamela “Pam’ L. Critchlow

LANCASTER – Pamela “Pam” L. Critchlow, age 71, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday November 20, 2024, at home. Pam was born in Lancaster on December 17, 1952; the daughter of Lloyd and Violet (Nickel) Martin. Pam graduated from Lancaster High School in 1971. On June 14, 1975, Pam married the love of her life, Gean Critchlow, at the Lancaster United Methodist Church. Gean preceded her in death in 2019.

After graduating high school, Pam attended Southwest Technical College and then went on to work until their children were born.  Once their children were born, Pam dedicated her time to raising her family. Once the kids were a little older, Pam found her true calling as a paraprofessional in the Lancaster school district, where she devoted 30 years of her life to supporting and uplifting students before she retired.

Pam was a proud grandmother who cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren. She was their biggest fan, attending all their sporting events with unwavering enthusiasm, even if she didn’t fully understand the sport. Her love of family and friends extended to her many traveling adventures, including many Warco bus trips, shopping excursions, and her Sunday trips to Dubuque with her sister Lola to enjoy live music events. Friday night fish frys and Saturday pizza nights with a rowdy game of nudder became treasured traditions. She enjoyed walking with Lola multiple days each week, simply enjoying life and the friendship they shared.

Pam had a heart of gold. She would do anything for anybody, at any time, expecting nothing in return. Her kindness, compassion, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed.

Pam is survived by her two children, Andrea (Rob) Block and Kevin Critchlow; two grandchildren, Jackson and Jenna Block; and sister Lola (Michael) Sweeney. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gean; her parents; and dear friend, Sally Cox.