Paul Vincent Criste

Paul Vincent Criste, 78, of DeLand, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on April 28, 2025, after a brief illness.

Born on May 30, 1946, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Paul was the son of Hilary A. Criste, Sr. and Cecelia Delarose (Doll) Criste. He graduated from Wilkinsburg High School and went on to study at the University of Pittsburgh.

A proud veteran of the U.S. Army, Paul went on to build a successful 30-year career in telecommunications, rising to key leadership roles in several companies. After retiring, he found renewed purpose helping hurricane survivors navigate recovery through his work in insurance.

Paul was a passionate reader of non-fiction, a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan, and a doting grandfather who never missed a chance to boast about his beloved grandson. His wit, warmth, and storytelling lit up every room he entered.

He will be deeply missed by his daughters: Dawn Kidd (A.J.), Robin Roper, Erin Criste, and Lauren Criste; his cherished grandson, Paul; his brother, John W. Criste (Jo Ann); his sisters, Mary Ellen and K. Alice; eleven nieces and nephews; and sixteen great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Hilary A. Criste, Jr. and Robert J. Criste.

Paul found joy in life’s simple pleasures—Sunday open houses, clean headlights, a good loophole, and the occasional trip to Costco or McDonald’s for coffee. He had a soft spot for Pat Boone, hot dogs, chocolate ice cream cones, and visits to the dog park with his canine companions.

In keeping with his wishes, no services are planned at this time. Those wishing to honor Paul’s memory may do so by donating to Tunnels to Towers, a cause close to his heart.