Who was Patrick Crowley?
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Patrick Crowley, a remarkable and compassionate individual, cherished friend, devoted husband, and family man, has left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His diverse and impactful journey took him from being a computational physicist in the esteemed US atomic weapons program to pursuing his lifelong passions as a musician, photographer, avid traveler, hiker, and dedicated olive orchardist. It is with both heavy hearts and gratitude that we remember Patrick Crowley, who peacefully passed away at the age of 87 on March 5, 2023, at Westwind Memory Care in Santa Cruz, California. His battle with advanced-stage Alzheimer’s Disease, compounded by the challenges of COVID-19, serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
William Patrick Crowley, born to Michael J. Crowley and Nelle Slemmons on April 6, 1935, in Ketchikan, Alaska, embodied a lifelong love for the ocean. Raised in the coastal towns of Ketchikan, Seattle, and San Diego, Pat’s affinity for boats, ships, and the maritime world flourished from a young age. During his formative years, he actively contributed to his community, working on his grandmother’s halibut boat in Seattle and engaging in activities such as a newspaper route, fishing, and assisting his mother in her bar. Pat’s dedication to both his studies and extracurricular activities culminated in his graduation from Ketchikan High School as the Salutatorian. His involvement in band, government, sports, and fire squad, alongside his academic pursuits, showcased his unwavering commitment to excellence.
Following his high school graduation, Pat embarked on a new chapter by moving to San Diego and enrolling at San Diego State College, where he pursued studies in mathematics and physics. This educational foundation laid the groundwork for his subsequent achievements. He further honed his expertise by obtaining a master’s degree from UC Berkeley. Pat’s illustrious career found its cornerstone at Lawrence Livermore National Lab (Rad Lab) in 1958, where he embarked on his role as a computational physicist within the theoretical physics department. A visionary in computational fluid dynamics, Pat’s innovative contributions reverberate through time.
Patrick Crowley’s impact extended beyond the realm of science. His passion for music led him to become an accomplished musician, captivating audiences with his melodic compositions. As an avid traveler and hiker, he traversed landscapes with a sense of wonder and curiosity that inspired all those around him. His dedication to cultivating olive orchards demonstrated his commitment to sustainable living and environmental stewardship. Patrick Crowley’s multifaceted life and legacy are a testament to the richness of the human experience.
In his later years, Patrick Crowley faced the challenges of advanced-stage Alzheimer’s Disease with courage and grace. His unwavering spirit and the loving support of his family and friends were a source of inspiration to all. He peacefully journeyed beyond the veil on March 5, 2023, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate. As we reflect upon the life of Patrick Crowley, his remarkable journey reminds us to embrace each moment and cherish the bonds of friendship and family. To learn more about his life and contributions, you can read his obituary titled “Patrick Crowley Obituary.“
Pioneering Spirit: Computational Physics and Beyond
The early days of computational physics were characterized by dedication, innovation, and collaborative effort. Pat, alongside esteemed colleagues such as Chuck Leith, made significant strides in developing atmospheric weather models and tackling the intricate challenges of fluid turbulence modeling. These groundbreaking endeavors remain foundational in the field to this day. Notably, Pat’s 1967 numerical model of the world’s oceans underscored his commitment to pushing boundaries and unraveling the mysteries of the natural world. His tenure at LLNL was marked by creativity, camaraderie, and a steadfast pursuit of excellence.
In January 1989, Pat joined hearts with his beloved Betty in a joyous union in Livermore, California. Their enduring marriage was marked by shared passions and memorable adventures. Settling in the picturesque Livermore hills, they embarked on a unique journey as olive orchardists, cultivating a testament to their dedication and love for the earth. Together, they traversed the globe, embarking on captivating cruises that took them from the pristine landscapes of Antarctica to the rugged beauty of Scotland.
Harmonies of Life: Music and Creativity
Among Pat’s many passions, music held a special place in his heart. Rooted in a family of musicians, Pat’s piano prowess was a source of joy and inspiration. Captivated by the allure of ragtime music, he earned the affectionate moniker “Ragtime Man” for his spirited performances at local venues. Pat’s artistic endeavors extended beyond the stage, as he co-directed a musical production in Santa Rita’s Women’s Prison alongside his friend and journalist, Joan Boar. His musical talents resonated through community melodramas and collaborations with fellow musicians, including his dear friend Bob Freis on the saxophone.
Pat’s zest for life manifested in his culinary artistry, a skill he eagerly shared with friends and loved ones. His love for fine dining and exquisite red wines was a testament to his refined palate and appreciation for life’s indulgences. Beyond the confines of a kitchen, Pat’s exploratory spirit led him to the Sierra Nevada mountains, where he reveled in hiking, camping, and the captivating beauty of wildflowers. His unique perspective as an avid wildflower photographer allowed him to capture the essence of nature’s fleeting moments.
Patrick Crowley obituary: A Lasting Legacy
In his essence, Pat Crowley embodied kindness, thoughtfulness, love, creativity, and boundless generosity. His warm bear hugs and sage words left an enduring impact on all fortunate enough to cross his path. As we bid farewell to a cherished husband, stepfather, and friend, we find solace in the legacy of compassion and joy he leaves behind.
Pat is survived by his beloved wife, Betty Crowley, with whom he shared 34 beautiful years of companionship. His memory lives on through his stepdaughter Beverly Norleen (Craig Norleen) and step-grandson Will Jaeger of Santa Cruz, California, as well as stepdaughter Lauren Jaeger and step-grandson Joel Jaeger (Asia Jaeger) of Laverne, California. Pat’s legacy is further enriched by the lives of his parents and the many dear friends who preceded him in passing.
As we reflect on the life and times of Patrick Crowley, let us remember the beauty of a life well-lived and the profound impact one individual can make on the world around them. In celebrating Pat’s journey, we honor the enduring spirit of adventure, curiosity, and love that defined his remarkable existence.
Patrick Crowley Obituary
The loss of Patrick Crowley has left a void in the community, and it is natural to experience grief and a range of emotions during this time. It is essential to support one another, share memories, and seek solace in the collective bond built by Patrick Crowley’s legacy. Together, we can find healing and strength in celebrating their life.
Patrick Crowley Obituary will be updated as soon as accurate information is available. Family, friends, and community members are encouraged to gather to honor and pay their respects to this remarkable individual. Let us come together to celebrate Patrick Crowley’s life, acknowledging the impact they had on each of us.
