Claude Edward Criss, Jr, 67, of Oklahoma City, entered into God’s Kingdom at 5:01 PM on October 13th, 2023 under the care of hospice at Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City.

Claude Criss was born in Oklahoma City to Clois Elizabeth and Claude Edward Criss Sr., one of three children. He is survived by his brother, Harold Watson, his sister, Wanda Farrell, and his daughter, Emily Criss. Claude was preceded in death by his wife, Anne Therese Lantz, 56, on September 17th, 2015.

There is not a period in Claude’s life it seems without a good story, and he was known for always having one or being in the process of making another. He told stories of testifying at the grand jury for the 1995 bombing of the Murrah Building, racing cars, and catching “bad guys” as a private investigator that captivated many. As humble as he was, he wouldn’t ever admit to being a helper but if there was someone to have in your corner, it was him. He was fiercely devoted to his wife and daughter, moving all across the United States to California, Texas, Oklahoma, and back again to give them the best life possible. As his daughter, I can attest that he was a great sport for “pony rides” where I pulled his hair out having him crawl on the carpet with me on his back and eventually taking me to horseback riding lessons for years that we’d finish with Hungryman dinners in the living room watching Cops.

My dad was a best friend to many, a brother to some, and an enemy to none, though a troublemaker through and through if it was fun trouble. His friends recounted stories of letters sent by OKC PD to stop racing his car around once he turned of age, and that didn’t stop when he was in his 60s either, and taking family into racetracks after hours I’m sure to just “check it out.” As a private investigator and security guard, he always had the interests of those less fortunate in mind and was loyal and protective to a fault. He told stories of protecting those in need and never let his wife or daughter worry a wink about him.

Claude was the epitome of strength, kindness, courage, and loyalty. He will be so dearly missed.

Services are pending to take place at Resurrection Memorial Cemetery in Oklahoma City. 

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