April M. Criss, 48, passed away peacefully with her family by her side, on September 23, 2025, after a courageous battle with colon cancer. She was born on April 25, 1977 to Deborah Morrison and the late Rex Penland.

She was a 1995 graduate of Hoover High School. April then completed the dental hygienist program at Stark State and was working for Akron Children's Hospital. Her love for children was evident not only with her job, but also in her own life.

April was the definition of an amazing mom. She adored her children and was ALWAYS there for every event, school play which sometimes included costume making, or volunteering any way she could.

She was also a second mom to her kid's friends. Her house was always full of love and laughter and that was something April always welcomed.

Speaking of laughter, April had one of the best laughs, the ability to make anyone laugh and the brightest smile. She was outgoing, smart, and left such an impact on so many people.

She also had a love for the outdoors, whether it was camping, kayaking, or going on cruises, and always found the beauty in the things around her.

April was not only involved with her children and work, but she was extremely active in her community, especially with her church family.  She was a dedicated member of Church of the Lakes and recently went to Ashville, North Carolina where her children accompanied her to help re-build the community.  Her compassion, unwavering kindness and love was the perfect example of a life well-lived in service to others.

Left to cherish her memories, are her parents Deb and Scott Morrison; beloved children, Joe and Katie Criss; her "wasband" and father of her children, John Criss; step-kids who she loved as her own, Nikki (Jerry) Csaki and John-Michael Criss; a loving "Nana" to Silas; a sister to Andy Morrison and Sarah (Rocky) Hidey; and the best dog mom to Coco and Cassie.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, September 27th from 1 p.m.- 4 p.m. at Church of the Lakes, 5944 Fulton Dr NW, Canton, OH 44718.

A celebration of life will follow at 4:00 p.m. at the church.