It is with profound sadness we share the news of the passing of John Duane Crider. Surrounded by family, he was welcomed into the arms of angels on Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025, in Edmonds, Washington. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Lou and John Crider of Lamont, Oklahoma, his brother, Dick Crider and sister, Kay Fiebig. 

He leaves behind his wife, Jan; son, Greg Crider (Beverly), their two sons, Aspen and Dylan; his daughter, Jenna Crider (Alex Smithwick), Jenna’s two sons, Drake and Dawson Holland, bonus grandchildren, Maddox and Oliver Smithwick, Lorina Birdshead and her children, Aizleigh and Dayton; brother-in-law, Doug Fiebig, and BFF from birth, Ken Boyle. 

Duane was born Feb. 8, 1949, in Enid, Oklahoma, and spent his formative years in Lamont, Oklahoma, residing on the family’s homesteaded farm seven miles east of town. He developed a strong work ethic through his involvement with outdoor tasks on the wheat farm, including operating machinery and hauling hay for local farmers during the summer months. In the spring, the wheat harvest became a family affair in which his mother and sister, Kay, took the important role of cooking and serving a hot meal to the workers. Duane and his brother, Dick enjoyed participating in the local FFA, raising pigs for annual county fair exhibitions. 

After graduating from high school, Duane attended Oklahoma State University, where he met the love of his life, Jan Walker, and they married in 1969. He earned his B.S. in Agronomy and Turf Management in 1972 and began working for the U.S.D.A. Soil Conservation Service (now NRCS), spending 30 years as District Conservationist at the El Reno Field Office. Duane built strong relationships with farmers, landowners and tribal members across Oklahoma. After 38 years, he retired in February 2010, grateful for the camaraderie with his colleagues.

Duane and Jan were active members of First Christian Church in El Reno and Duane became a faithful member of the choir. They both served as sponsors of the junior high and high school youth group for many years. The Sunday night youth group meetings were full of opportunities to create personal relationships with the youth and their families. Their participation in youth trips to destinations such as lakes in Oklahoma and ski resorts in Colorado are experiences they have always regarded as the most rewarding of their lives.

They served either as a Deacon or an Elder for over 41 years. On Jan. 22, 2023, Duane was recognized by the congregation with the award of Elder Emeritus – to be known as a servant forever. 

In 1982, Duane began coaching Greg’s co-ed soccer team, the MGM Stars from which he derived much pleasure. He coached for six years, then continued for two more as the team became the El Reno Indians. He also enjoyed supporting his daughter, Jenna in ballet and tap and later as part of the El Reno High School Dance Team.

Starting in the 1970s, Duane made healthy living central to his life through regular exercise and balanced nutrition. He created the motto NETMED ― “no excuses three miles every day” ― which inspired those around him to adopt similar habits. He was seen and recognized by many people as he ran many miles on the streets of El Reno. 

Duane valued staying active and spending time fishing, especially at Buddy Thompson’s pond west of El Reno.

There, he enjoyed peaceful moments in nature, catching fish with friends and family, and tackling the occasional tangled line or stray hook. These experiences highlighted his appreciation for life’s simple pleasures and meaningful connections outdoors.

Duane and Jan took memorable vacations with their kids and grandsons visiting national parks, camping, and making campfire breakfasts. They also regularly explored the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, often hiking in celebration of Duane’s February birthday.

The family also enjoyed trips to Colorado ski resorts where music, especially John Denver's “Rocky Mountain High,” along with many other types of music that became a staple at both vacations and backyard parties.

Duane found his greatest joy in spending time with his four grandsons, actively taking part in their activities, school events and academics. He led family traditions like the Christmas march singing “Good King Wenceslas,” regularly supported them at school, joined field trips, and ran a small mowing business to help his eldest grandsons earn income for 10 years after retiring. 

His family fondly recalls his knack for picking lunch spots on hikes, teaching confident handshakes and fist bumps, sharing prayers on the way to school, acting as lifeguard in the backyard pool, and always prioritizing God and family.

Duane valued nature in all its forms and encouraged positive connections with others. He lived purposefully and enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. His warmth and laughter will be missed, but his legacy will persist through the kindness he inspired.

Duane’s memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Oct. 25 at First Christian Church, 400 S. Barker, El Reno. Guests are encouraged to dress casually and wear OSU orange. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor may be made to the church or another preferred method.