Donald H. “Don” Crowley – 73 – of 19 Howard St., Hornell, died peacefully Tuesday afternoon (February 14, 2012) at Strong Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his loving family, following a long illness.
Born in Hornell on May 5, 1938, he was the son of Harry & Luella (Knapp) Crowley.Don grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1956). He later served and was honorably discharged from the US Army.
He was employed in several capacities, including working in the caller’s office and in the Accounting Bureau of the former Erie Railroad & Erie Lackawanna Railroad for 18 ½ years. He later worked as a custodian for the Hornell School District, primarily at the Hornell Intermediate School, Hornell High School and Bryant School, retiring in about 11 years ago.
Don was a true “family man” who enjoyed taking care of his loved ones. He also had a deep affection for his 3 cats, Whitey, Zoey & Pye and his beloved dog, Riley who died 13 months ago.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Marilyn Day.
Don was married on July 6, 1964 to the former Arlene Baird who survives. Also surviving are 3 children, Robert (Sharon Galvan) Crowley of Bath, Charlene (Scott) Heard of Wolcott, CT and Barbara Burdick of Addison; 2 brothers, Richard (Ruth) Crowley of Bergen, NY and Gary Crowley of New Hampshire; 6 grandchildren, Robert Crowley JR, Dennis Crowley, Michael Quick, Bryan Quick, Allison Crowley and Jacob Burdick; 3 great-grandchildren, Gabriella Quick, Christopher Quick and Madyson Crowley; several nieces, nephews & cousins.
At Don’s request there will be no calling hours. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Don’s family request that memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843.
So sorry to hear about Uncle Don.
You are all in my prayers during this difficult time.
I have fond rememberences of growing up with Don and Gary. What a great family. Don cared about everyone and showed that daily. I was fortunate enough to see him at James Street Park when home to a Brewer Reunion. As normal for Don he was more interested in what you were doing and how you were. I will miss him.
Don you will be missed, I enjoyed our many talks together. May you rest in peace my friend. My condolences to the family.
Sorry for your loss, thinking of all of you. Don was a nice man and will be remembered fondly.
I am very sorry to hear of Don’s passing. He was my supervisor when I worked for the district (Bryant School) during the summers between college semesters. He was truly one of the nicest men I had ever met. He treated me like a son, and always had a great perspective on life.
My condolences to Barb and the rest of the family.
God Bless,
Pete Secondo
Van Etten, NY
My condolences to Arlene and the family. May God give you strength in this time of sorrow.
Don you will be missed but never forgotten you will always have a place in our hearts , Our condolences to Arlene and family .
Arlene and family
I was so sorry to read about Don’s passing. You both such good friends of Mom and Dad’s, and great neighbors while we were growing up. Who can forget the card games. Don was such a nice person (as you all are). My brothers and sisters will keep you all in our prayers.
I was so sorry to hear of Don’s passing. You are in my prayers and thoughts. Kim Wood
i remember living acrossthe street from don for many years. he was a sweet an loving man and don and arlene where very generous to me and my children. he will be sadly missed! much love to the family… i enjoyed having coffee and our chats we shared.. “GOD BLESS”