Annabella Jean Kritzman, age 6, of Lewiston, Michigan, passed away on January 29, 2023.
She was born in Gaylord, Michigan, on March 30, 2016, to Ricky Kritzman and Mellisa Lazar.
They were inseparable, this spirited sweetheart and her favorite stuffed animal, Clifford, the Big Red Dog. He’d sneak into her classroom at Lewiston Elementary, ride in her shopping cart at Family Fare and even snuggle beside her when she went to bed at night. He was a most fortunate dog, to be loved by a most wonderful little girl. And he shared his spot in her heart with her own beloved real dogs, Blu and Copper.
Her heart had room for them all, and more. She lived to love. She loved school and the friends she found there. Teachers didn’t need to check a seating chart to know if Annabella Kritzman was present. She announced herself with her endless energy, her inquisitive eyes, and her radiant spirit.
God must have used big scoops when he measured out the personality of this little one. She had plenty. She was always curious, eager to explore, and filled with wonder. She loved to swim, watch Paw Patrol and play monster trucks with her nephew. She would have made the perfect receptionist, for she loved talking on the phone and had a happy hello for anyone on the line. She made friends of strangers in the twinkle of an eye.
Of all the places she loved to be and of all the people she loved to be with, her favorite was home with her family. She adored her big sisters, Alexis, and Alayna. There was nothing like a hug from her daddy to bring sunshine to her day—and she had a thousand “I Love You’s” addressed and waiting for him. She was her mother’s constant shadow, always just a step behind, following in pure love and hoping to be just like her someday. And she held close in her heart her family that lived further away—cousins Gregory and Gavin, her sweet aunts and uncles, and of course her “Dramie” and “Nana.”
Her young heart was pure, her personality vibrant—she loved life and everyone in it. She left us too soon but we’ll never, ever forget Annabella—Clifford’s friend, the little girl with the great big heart.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 4, 2023, at 4:00 p.m. with visitation beginning at 3:30 p.m. at the Lewiston Elementary School at 4580 Montmorency St, Lewiston, MI 49756.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family to assist with expenses. A donation account is opened at Community Financial Credit Union in Lewiston and Gaylord, and the First Baptist Church of Lewiston is accepting donations for the family as well.
Donations of items for the family can be dropped off at Lewiston Elementary School.
Arrangements were entrusted to Nelson Funeral Home and Cremation Service, PO Box 1548, Gaylord, MI 49734.
1 comment on “Annabella J. Kritzman”
Ricky, Melissa and family,
I am still heartbroken and unable to understand this tragic accident that took sweet Bella away from the world.
I know she is with the angels in Heaven loving you all forever and ever. Someday, when it’s your turn to be in Heaven, you will see that beautiful smile again. Carry her smile and fun, happy memories with you all of your days until then.
On behalf of my parents and children, we are sending our deepest heartfelt condolences and pray the Lord walks along side you as you somehow try to heal and go on in your lives as she would want you too. We love you all.