Critchett Piano Company, founded in 1922 by Bert Critchett, was first located at 1409 Forest Avenue. The 88-year-old piano business will close this year. In 1971 Dave Brown and his mother, Lois Critchett Brown, bought the company. Dave, Bert’s grandson, became sole owner when his mother died 7 years later. The piano company moved from Forest Avenue to Hickman Avenue in 1968; in 2004 it moved to Urbandale. Dave turns 70 in January, and says the closing has nothing to do with the economy; he wants to spent more time with his family. Clockwise from top: The Critchett family, taken in 1959. From left to right: Lois, Ken, George, Bert and Dave. • Bert Critchett, at age 26, in his voice studio in 1908. • The original piano studio in 1922 depicted on a greeting card. • Home delivery truck.