John Crowley

John Joseph Crowley died Thursday, Aug. 25, 2011 at Enloe Hospital, after courageously fighting a long illness. John, the eldest son of Margaret and Redmond Crowley, was born July 16, 1946 in Bandon, County Cook, Ireland. His early schooling occurred in Bandon, Drumcondra, and later in St. Kieran's College in Kilkenny. He was ordained a Roman Catholic priest in 1971. His first assignment brought him to the United States, where he ministered in Redding, Chico and Oroville for nearly 20 yrs. In Chico he served as assistant pastor under the pastorship of Thomas Dermody, and aside from his priestly services, attended classes at Chico State, was an active panelist on Irish literature and gave lectures on a local TV channel. In 1987, John left the priesthood and began a career in social work, eventually settling in Chico with his wife, Rose and their three sons. For four years John Crowley was the manager of the Pioneer Towers retirement home in Central City near Sacramento, where he also taught a series of classes in modern Irish literature through the Irish American Club. While he was at the Towers, residents formed a poets and writers group meeting weekly; volumes of poetry were published and a story telling class was formed. His love of language was inherent in his Irish ancestry. He was an avid reader, a devourer of the written world. Later, he worked in Red Bluff in the care of foster children and family placement until his ill health prevailed. John was special, spiritual, positive and uncomplaining to the end. He was known for his wit, humor and kindness. Many viewed him selfishly as a sort of natural resource to be exploited and enjoyed. He leaves behind a loving and grieving family and many, many friends. Survivors include his three sons, John, Redmond and William, all of Chico; and his sisters, Mary Edmond and Catherine Geraghty; his brother, Redmond Crowley, and cousins, Maureen and Patrick Crowley, all of Ireland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, Sept. 1, 2011, at 10:00 a.m. at Our Divine Savior Catholic Church in Chico. Vigil will be at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2011 at Brusie Funeral Home. Those wishing to contribute to a Crowley Family Trust may do so via Our Divine Savior, Crowley Family Trust, 566 East Lassen Ave., Chico, CA 95973.