Jeffrey Dale Criner Sr, age 57, passed away on August 18, 2026 in Tooele, Utah due to medical complications from a pulmonary embolism. He was born on May 4th, 1969 in Willows, California to Patricia and Kenneth Criner.
A man with a big heart and a loyal friend to many, Jeff lived his life with passion and warmth. He found joy in music, listening to his favorite band Metallica. Spending his free time playing his guitar, jamming with his friends and performing. He also enjoyed riding motorcycles and dirt bikes. When he wasn’t visiting his friends and family he loved spending time with his grandkids. Telling them stories of his childhood, making up silly songs, letting them stay up too late and sneaking them way too much candy.
Jeff is survived by his loving wife, Ruth Grace; his children Jeffrey Jr, Miranda (Lyle), Michael (Stephanie) and Loren (Chris); his grandchildren Patience, Braylee, Ember, Lyle, Kenzi and Katie, who love and will miss their papa dearly. Mother: Patty, sisters: Mariyln, Holly, Trisha, Rachel; brothers: Scott, Jason and Nolan
Jeff is preceded in death by father Kenneth, sister Amy and grandparents.
Jeff will be remembered as a man who could tune by ear and play the shit out of a guitar, by his sense of humor, laughter and his big heart. He will be dearly missed.
A viewing will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026 from 10:00 – 11:00 AM at Ridge Ward 132 North 570 East Tooele, Utah.
Interment will take place at 11:30 AM at the Tooele City Cemetery under the care of Dalton-Hoopes Funeral Home & Cremation Center.
A Celebration Of Life will be held Saturday, August 29, 2026 from 2:00 – 6:00 PM at the Parks and Rec Large Community Room 255 South 100 East Tooele, Utah next to the cemetery.
Come in your band t’s and leather, ready to headbang and enjoy some good company and some of his favorite foods.
Online condolences and memories may be shared at daltonhoopes.com
5 Responses
My heart is broken for the entire family! I send my deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to you all. Praying for everyone that loves our brother/friend/dad /mate/ parents…
I’m sorry. Prayers for his family.
Jeff will be missed he was my best friend growing up i spent more time at his house than I did at home going on vacation with his family he was more of a brother than anything else I will always remember the time we were out doing things we should not of been doing but we were having fun I’m really going to miss him
Hi Gracie it’s me cousin Desirie awww I’m so very for your loss James sent me this wow you have a big family cousin I hope we can get together soon like the old days anyways you take care of yourself and your family I love ❤️ you Desirie
Im so sorry to hear this my heart goes out to Jeff’s family, and friends. Jeff’s dad Kenneth is my cousin my family sends love to you all. Betty Ann (Bethany) Stoko