Ship Progressman Machinist
 
PORTSMOUTH NAVAL SHIPYARD
 
Kenneth James Critchley was born in Saco, Maine, on December 15, 1918.  He attended public schools in Saco, and was a graduate of Thornton Academy, Saco, Maine.
 
A veteran of more than 20 years of service with the U. S. Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, N.H., Kenneth first started as a machinist on August 19, 1940.  He was subsequently advanced to his last position of ship progressman machinist in the Progress Branch of the Production  Department.
 
During World War II, Kenneth was called into the service, and served for 2 years with the Supply Corps, U.S. Army, as a technician, fourth class.
 
After his discharge from the Army, he returned to the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Kenneth's homelife centered around his family, and his hobbies. He was an avid photographer, and liked boating, hunting, and repairing anything mechanical. Kenneth was constantly repairing children's bikes, gocarts, and cars.  He was also an active member of the Masonic Lodge.
 
Kenneth is survived by his wife, the former Dorothy Jane Hood of Dayton, Maine; and a son, Terry James. He also leaves three sisters, and a brother.