In Memoriam BOB CRITTON
We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Robert “ Bob ” D . Critton , Jr ., who passed away peacefully on December 8 , 2020 . Bob was an incredibly devoted attorney , veteran , colleague , partner , father , grandfather , husband , and friend . Bob will be deeply missed but never forgotten .
Bob joined the Firm in 1986 as a partner . Bob was a Board Certified civil trial attorney who specialized in general civil and complex commercial litigation . He was known by his colleagues as one of the most detailed and well-prepared lawyers in Palm Beach County . He was a lawyer ’ s lawyer . Bob was often called on by other lawyers for advice and counseling .
Bob was a dedicated advocate for his clients . He practiced law with integrity and civility . Bob enjoyed complex and challenging cases . His accolades over his forty-year legal career are too numerous to list .
Bob will be remembered for his devotion to people . Because of Bob , many of the Firm ’ s employees have been with the Firm for decades . Countless lawyers and employees of the Firm have been impacted by Bob ’ s mentorship .
In 2016 , Bob was diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer , a disease with a median survival rate of two to six months .
Because of Bob ’ s regimented treatment and dedication to fighting the disease , we were blessed with four amazing years after his diagnosis . Bob was not deterred by his diagnosis , he lived his life to the fullest , enjoyed every moment , and continued his devotion to his family , his practice , and his friends . Bob ’ s jovial and uplifting approach to life after his diagnosis left those around him inspired by his courageous battle .
Outside of the courtroom , Bob was a dedicated family man . He lived with the love of his life , Amy . Bob and Amy loved visiting their daughter , Samantha , and son-in-law , James Whitley . Bob was very close with Samantha and involved in all of her hobbies and activities , from traveling to Civil War battlefields , surfing in Costa Rica , ski vacations , and CrossFit .
Bob was an excellent golfer and belonged to McArthur Golf Club in Hobe Sound , Florida where he had many close friends . Bob was determined not to let his cancer diagnosis slow him down . He continued to regularly walk 18 holes at McArthur despite battling the disease . He took yearly ski trips . He even continued CrossFit .
Bob spent his last three years developing a bond with his new best friend , his grandson , JR Whitley . He is survived by his wife , Amy Critton , his daughter , Samantha Whitley , his son-in-law , James Whitley , his grandson , JR Whitley , his sister , Joan Runnion , and many loved nieces and nephews . Bob ’ s second grandson , Robert Critton Whitley , will be born in 2021 .
303 Banyan Blvd # 400 // West Palm Beach , FL 33401 // 561.842.2820 mail @ lawclc . com // www . lawclc . com
PBCBA BAR BULLETIN 14