Dalton Criss

Type of Donation:          organs, tissue, and corneas

Age and Location:          Age 18 – Peru, NY

Donation Date:             8/20/2019

Sponsor:                   Honored by Center for Donation and Transplantation

DALTON’S STORY

Dalton was a miraculous addition to the Criss family, as doctors did not think that he would survive birth. That fighting spirit developed into both physical strength and emotional awareness. Even as a baby, his incredible strength was noticeable when after having a surgical procedure before the age of 2, he "punched" a nurse and had to be restrained by his dad.

He grew to become an outstanding athlete, musician and honor student and Peru Central High School and excelled at football, wrestling (NYS qualifier) and the upright string bass. He was a 2019 graduate of PCHS, and at the time of his untimely death was preparing to begin his college career at SUNY Plattsburgh. With a major in Criminal Justice and a double minor in Music and History, Dalton aspired to work for the U.S. Border Patrol, to live out his passion of making the world a better place for everyone.

He was a member of the Faith Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church of Glens Falls, NY, where he played drums. A "Gospel Choir Baby", Dalton was surrounded by Plattsburgh State Gospel Choir family from birth and served as a Stepper and percussionist. He often donated his time and talent and played drums and/or string bass for the School Orchestra, the PSGC and various churches in the community.

He had a big heart and he gave the most honorable sacrificial gifts of life and improved life through his organ and tissue donations. All but his lungs and pancreas were matched to individuals for a second chance at life or and improved quality of life. He was a "gentle giant"! He made sure that everyone around him felt welcomed and needed. The news of his death rocked this community to its very core. This kid jumped off the school bus to help our neighbor with a coach. He impressed one of his classmates so much that he convinced his partner to call their first son, Dalton.

The organ donation staff at UVM were amazing. You can tell that Jennifer and her staff have a strong passion for this work. From the Honor Walk and even till today, we have a strong bond with her and many others.