Harry Allen Crissman

Dr. Harry Allen Crissman, 88, passed away August. 23, 2023 at Juniper Village in State College, PA where he had lived for the past two years.

 Harry was born on August 16th, 1935. He was the son of the late Allen R. and Rose (Severino) Crissman of Lock Haven, Pennsylvania.

 Harry graduated from Lock Haven High School in 1953. He briefly attended Pennsylvania State University, before being drafted into the Army as a paratrooper. He was stationed at Fort Campbell, KY serving in the 101st Airborne Division. Upon discharge, he returned to work at his family’s business, the Crissman Meat Packing Plant in Castanea. During this time, he returned to school, and obtained his teaching degree from Lock Haven State College which he utilized when teaching high school biology and chemistry in New York. Harry discovered his affinity for science and was encouraged to continue his studies. He returned to Penn State University to obtain his masters and Ph.D.

 When he completed his doctorate, Dr. Crissman accepted a position at the renowned Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico for the rest of his career. During this time, Harry pursued an illustrious career in flow cytometry. His research explained the ubiquitous method of cell analysis which has allowed modern hospitals and laboratories to better understand and treat cancer. In the course of his career, he had written many research articles and obtained a multitude of accolades, patents, and honors through his cancer research.

Upon retirement, Harry and his wife, Maelo, moved to State College to be closer to his family. They were delighted to entertain many friends and family over the years to their home. They were avid Penn State fans with season football tickets. Harry and Maelo spent many happy hours enjoying their visits to the Matz family’s home for holidays, birthdays, cookouts, and spontaneous visits! Harry never came empty handed when visiting, always bringing some baked goods jokingly saying he made it. If the family came home and had missed seeing him, they would know he was there because of the loaf of Italian bread or cookies on the table.

Harry is predeceased by his parents, his loving wife, Maelo, his sister, Elvera (Teeny) Crissman, and his first wife and mother of his daughter, Faith (Sweitzer) Crissman. Surviving is his daughter Angela Rose Matz and her husband Steve Matz with their children Alice Rose, Ella Rose, and Raena Marie Matz.

Harry Crissman is remembered fondly by numerous people he met along the way, writing and receiving many thoughtful letters from friends and past colleagues up until his death. He was a devoted father and grandfather. His family misses his presence dearly and are grateful for his military service and advancement in the science community.

 Harry’s family and friends will be received at the Gedon Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LLC, 121 W. Main St., Lock Haven, on Tuesday, August 29th 10:00 am for family and 11:00am-12:00pm for friends of Harry and his family. There will be no service.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations be made in Harry’s name to the Lock Haven Catholic School, 311 W. Water St., Lock Haven, PA 17745.

Online thought and memories can be made at www.GedonFuneralHomes.com or the Gedon Funeral Home Facebook Page.

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