Bill Crippen

Obituary of Bill Crippen
William R. "Bill" Crippen
August 27, 1933 – May 20, 2025
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of William Richard "Bill" Crippen, a lifetime member of the North liberty community. A storyteller at heart and a man of countless skills, Bill lived a life marked by dedication, craftsmanship, and commitment to family and friends.
Born in Iowa City on August 27, 1933, to Theodore Joseph and Mearl Marie Crippen, Bill grew up in North Liberty and graduated from University High School, where he excelled in wrestling and track.
As a young child he learned to farm and help his parents in all aspects of their businesses which included restaurants, woodworking, farming, and the antique business. He also looked forward to every opportunity to spend time with his beloved horse Banner.
He married Shirley Ann Kern on September 10, 1956, and had six children. Margaret (Peg) Ann Young of Iowa City, Pamela Marie Overton Risoleo (Jim) of Paradise Valley, AZ, Michael Joseph Crippen (Karin) Oxford, North Carolina, Rebecca Susan Paintin (Tom) Moscow, Iowa, Cynthia Lee Tygart (Johnny) Broken Arrow OK, and Mark Allen Crippen (Kathryn) Phoenix, AZ.
His passion for building and creating led to a lifelong career as a contractor, where he constructed homes, restored historic properties, and mastered nearly every trade within the industry. His expertise extended beyond construction as an auctioneer, insurance adjuster, and entrepreneur who successfully ran multiple businesses.
On reflection of Bill, his closest friends remembered him," He was a jack of all trades and could do it all. Everything he did, he did really well! He was intelligent, smart as a whip, and one amazing carpenter. He was a great friend to all, and we will miss him."
A deeply involved member of his community, Bill was North Liberty's first Volunteer Fire Chief, responding to all types of emergencies before formal services were established. His commitment to his town was evident in his volunteer work with the American Legion, Boy Scouts, and numerous local events, including fishing tournaments, North Liberty Fun Days and other fundraisers.
Bill found joy in the outdoors, whether hunting with friends and family, fishing in Canada and Lake Rathbun, or foraging for mushrooms in his favorite secret spots. An award-winning trap shooter, he competed in state and national tournaments and spent time mentoring younger generations in the sport. He is also known for his enthusiasm for Hawkeye football and as an avid supporter of Caitlin Clark, Bill loved following his favorite teams.
He is also known for his unwavering love for the game of pool. He was a worthy and lifelong competitor and played in the local pool league until his final days- often outshooting players half his age and doing it with a smile and a chuckle. Whether he was sinking a tricky shot or sharing a post-game story, he made everyone feel respected and part of the team.
Bill married Delaine (Bliek) Crippen on September 5, 2005, and is survived by children Peg, Pam, Mike, Becky, Cindy, and Mark and the following Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren.
Grandchildren, Justin (Kelly) Young, Brandon (Karrie) Young, Teddy (Lauren) Overton, Christian (Heather) Overton, Elizabeth (Richie)Hojel, Cathy (Keith) Del Prete, Lauren (Russ) Ihara, Aimee (Jered)Wells, Sara Crippen, David Tygart, Joseph Tygart, Joshua (Nicki) Tygart, Matthew Tygart, Reid and Julia Crippen, Amber (Robbie) Ozzello, Sarah Paintin, Destiny (Mike)Ashley; great-grandchildren, Charlotte and Henry Young, Reagan, Mason, and Hattie Young, Quinn and Jack Overton, Lincoln and Ben Del Prete, Juniper, Durham, Holland, and Penny Wells, Dane and Taytum Payton, Thayne Paintin, Britney and Liam Ashley, Taylor (Jeff) Deatsch, and Mason Deatsch, Zion, Gable, and Noah Tygart, and countless friends whose lives he touched with his generosity and wisdom.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Noma Hoffman, former wife Shirley Doornbos, and granddaughter Molly Overton.
A Celebration of Life will be held Labor Day Weekend 2025, with specific details to be announced. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in his and Delaine's honor. These can be mailed to Gay & Ciha Funeral Home 2720 Muscatine Avenue Iowa City, Iowa 52240.
His stories, laughter, and legacy will forever remain in the hearts of all that knew him and loved him.