Paul R. Crellin, M.D.

Dr. Crellin passed away on Sept. 14, 2016, at the age of 91.

He was born in Omaha, Neb., and was adopted by Arthur and Edith Crellin of Lyons, Neb., where he grew up. He did very well in school despite having learning difficulties which were not clinically understood at the time.

Paul was awarded a Regent's Full Ride Scholarship to the University of Nebraska in 1942. He attended the University of Nebraska – Lincoln for one year, then enlisted in the V12 Program sponsored by the Navy during WWII. He attended Miami University in Oxford Ohio and Medical School at the University of Nebraska – Omaha. Paul interned at the Presbyterian Hospital in Denver, where he met Jean Lingenfelter, the love of his life, and they married. He acquired polio during training at the Children's Hospital in Denver, but was able to participate in the Navy as a physician during the Korean War. He completed his pediatric training and moved to Billings in 1953, where he joined Dr. George Nelson and Dr. John Whittinghill, forming the Children's Clinic. He practiced in Billings until 1988 and, during that time, served on the boards of St. Vincent Hospital, Northern Rocky Cancer Center, St. Vincent Foundation, Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Montana and was president of the Montana Medical Association.

After retiring from the Children's Clinic, he formed the Child Study Center along with Dr. Ned Tranel for the study of children with learning and attention problems. He spoke nationally on the topics of children's learning and attention disorders. He concluded his medical duties as a member of the Legends of St. Vincent Hospital and the St. Vincent Foundation.

He was an elder of the First Presbyterian Church and was active in stewardship and mission programs. Following retirement from the Child Study Center, Paul served on the medical staff of the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch and also taught pediatrics to the Physician's Assistance Program at Rocky Mountain College. Additional interests included leading support groups on Peripheral Neuropathy, leading Bible studies, swimming, gardening, and being a proud parent and grandparent.

In 2002, Paul and Jean moved to the St. John's Mission Ridge, where they joined a new family of friends and providers. Jean passed away in 2008 and Paul later moved to the Vista in 2014.

Paul was preceded in death by Arthur and Edith Crellin and Jean Crellin. He is survived by his brother, Gordon (Joan) of Omaha, Neb.; children Candy and Randy and his wife Lee; grandchildren Jenilee, Charlie and Vincent; and great-grandson Sawyer.

Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8, at the Lillis Chapel at St. John's Lutheran Home.

Those wishing to make a memorial donation in his honor may consider giving to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, c/o St. Vincent Healthcare Foundation; St. John's Lutheran Ministries Foundation; Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch; First Presbyterian Church; or a charity of choice.