Kevin John Kritz
September 8, 1959 – January 13, 2022
Kevin John Kritz died unexpectedly at his home. He was 62. In this Year of the Tiger, we have sadly lost our brother, affectionately nicknamed “Orange Cat”.
Born in Wisconsin to Ira and Evelyn Kritz, the fifth of eight children, he was so inspired by the outdoor activities he enjoyed with his family and the natural beauty of his home state that he chose to pursue a life surrounded by nature, specifically one with wildlife.
His life path was born when he joined the Boy Scouts, achieving the rank of the Eagle Scout and beginning his lifelong love of the outdoors. He was an avid birder, skier, hiker and camper in the mountains of Colorado where he was so at peace in the splendor of Mother Nature.
For over 44 years, Kevin dedicated his life to Wildlife Biology, serving as a Federal Wildlife Biologist for 33 of them. While concentrating on conservation efforts in the western United States, he oversaw the management of the Sage Grouse, Bald Eagle, Mountain Quail and Spotted Owl species and their habitat. In his most recent posting at the Lakewood office of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, he also focused on eagle and raptor ecology. An individual of integrity, he inspired us all with his passion for protecting endangered species even when it meant taking an unpopular stance in his community.
He traveled the globe to experience and learn about birds of the world and how other professionals were dealing with species in crisis. These conferences strengthened his resolve in actively working to reduce the impacts of energy development in the paths of migratory birds.
The majestic National Parks were a frequent destination for him as well as any small natural attraction at the side of the road, all were worth stopping the car for... He loved organizing meet-ups around the country with his siblings to share in our mutual passions of sporting events or a scenic tour in the great outdoors. A Fan-atic Wisconsin Badger and Green Bay Packer follower, Kevin never missed a game or any chance to be a booster for his teams.
Professional demeanor aside, Kevin loved to tease and rib his many nieces and nephews, even to be a “goofball”, much to their adoring delight. He was devoted to his entire family and made an extraordinary effort to attend every celebratory gathering or mark it with heartfelt acknowledgement.
He was preceded in death by his father Ira and his brother Kent. He is survived by his mother -Evelyn, siblings- Kiara(Russ Gamsky), Karla (Tom Herold), Kristin(Tim Terleski), Klarise, Kenetta (Charlie Dupre), Kandice (Sean Donnelly), sister-in-law-Janna, nieces and nephews–Ben, Sam, Jackie, Vanessa, Halley, Devan, Dilan, Dilise, Padraic and Dominic.
A celebration of life is planned in May when we can gather and honor Kevin’s many accomplishments and to remember his hilarious antics and the fun filled times we spent with him. We miss you dearly, “Uncle Kev”.
The natural world will greatly miss your devotion and passion… you are now free to soar forever!!
