Joseph John Crowley
Joseph John Crowley passed away following a long illness, just one month after his beloved wife and lifelong partner, Betty. His four children, Karen Lauer (Dale), Denise Vessie (Craig), Joe Crowley (Lisa), and Kim Crowley survive him. He also leaves behind his eight grandchildren, Joshua, Danie, Lauren, Casey, Emma, Kaitlin, Jack and Mia, as well as one brand new great grandchild, Riley. He was predeceased by his brother and best friend George David Crowley.
Joe was loving and vibrant, with a legendary sense of humor. He liked nothing better than causing someone to laugh or better yet, to believe one of his incredulous stories. The many who knew and loved him will miss those fabulous yarns and his infectious laugh.
Joe was raised in San Francisco and attended Commodore Sloat Elementary School and Lowell High School. It was in San Francisco that he met the love of his life, Betty, who he remained married to for 67 years. Joe attended UC Berkeley, the University of Texas at Austin, and Santa Clara University, playing varsity basketball throughout. His education was interrupted only by World War II in which he served proudly as an officer in the United States Navy. As and exceptional athlete, he was honored to be part of the All-Navy basketball team, competing against other branches of the military and as a result, entertaining and increasing the morale of his fellow service members. Following college, Joe worked as an engineer, and with his partner, soon opened his own company, Relco Insulation. After retiring from Relco, he spent the rest of his life with Betty in Sonoma and Reno, with family always nearby.
Of all his accomplishments, his family was by far the one of which he was proudest. He led his family passionately, and his wife, children, in-laws, and grandchildren loved him back just as fiercely. He will be remembered always and missed forever, but he will continue to live firmly in our hearts.
A celebration of Joe’s life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations in memory of Joe can be made to the SCU Athletic Department, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA 95053.