< back
In Memory Of
Michael James Crowe
10/13/1955 - 05/26/2010

Michael James Crowe, 54, of Bloomington, Indiana passed away May 26, 2010 at Bloomington Hospital. Mike was born October 13, 1955 in Ft. Wayne, Indiana to Dr. James W. Crowe and Barbara (Jones) Crowe. Mike enjoyed riding his motorcycle; he had a passion for deer hunting, and was a true fan of anything and everything to do with IU athletics – especially football tailgates with friends and family. A Colt’s fan and long time season ticket holder, Mike was also known to enjoy a hand or two of Texas Hold’em. A Purdue University graduate in Horticulture and Agronomy, Mike also met his wife Beth there. They were married August 1, 1981. As Director of Indiana University Department of Facilities, Mike oversaw the entire Bloomington campus grounds – consistently recognized as among the most beautiful in the United States. He was instrumental in the development of the campus nursery and flower production program and most recently he was an instrumental part of bringing the IU Memorial Stadium North Endzone and Cook Hall projects to fruition. His dedication and loyalty to Indiana University is widely known and will always be remembered by friends and colleagues. Examples of his work will remain part of the campus landscape for years to come and his loss is one that will be felt both personally and professionally. Mike is survived by his wife Beth and their children, daughter Lesley of Chicago, Illinois and son Ryan of Bloomington, his mother, Barbara, sister Monica Black, and mother-in-law Louise MacDonald of Hobart, Indiana. Mike was preceded in death by his father James W. Crowe (April 2010) and brother Eric. A memorial mass will be held on Friday at 12:00 pm at the St. Paul Catholic Center with Father Bob Keller officiating. Mike’s family will receive friends at the church from 10:00 am until service time. In lieu of flowers Memorial Contributions may be made to the Indiana University Athletic Department in care of The Funeral Chapel of Powell and Deckard, 3000 E. Third St. Bloomington, IN 47401.

Comment Script

Guestbook - sign the guestbook

Barbara, Beth, Monica and families.
I'm so sorry to hear about Mike's passing. Though we knew it was coming it doesn't make it any easier. Especially after losing Jim so recently too. My prayers are with you all. Mike and Keith Rubeck and I were the three musketeers at North. The stories I could tell.....but probably not here. Did you know we once parachuted at the IU stadium with Mike's parachute and Keith Rubeck's station wagon though? Mike was driving, Keith was riding the chute and I was laughing hysterically. Fun days, fun guys. They will both be missed. You ladies hang on to each other. Be blessed.
Jeff Grossnickle - signed on: 06/02/2010
I'm so stunned to hear of Mike's passing. I think he was one of the kindest men I've met in my professional career in Bloomington. Mt thoughts and deepest condolences go to the family and friends that knew him best. May he rest in peace.
Erin Erdmann - signed on: 06/01/2010
I worked with/for Mike 17 years ago in the Service Building. I remember Mike with a smile on his face and usually a funny story to tell. Great man. To his family, I am so sorry for your loss.
Jennifer Pitman Deckard - signed on: 05/28/2010
My earliest memory of Michael was in Junior High. We were about to play University Jr. High School in football. They were the best team in the city primarily because they had this kid named Mike Crowe who was blazing fast. Everyone we talked to told us we didn't have a chance against them as long as he was on the field, and they were right. Mike was the kind of person every guy growing up in our circle of friends wanted to be. Although I lost communication with Mike over the years the friendship and connection of those earlier years stayed in tact. Michael left an indeliable impression on each life he touched, he will be missed.
Rusty Fishel - signed on: 05/28/2010
Dear Beth and kids,
So sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I pray your hearts are warmed with treasured memories of him during this time and always. I remember when my best friend and I stayed at Beth and Mike's back in 89 when we visited tthe campus our senior year of highschool. The highlight was when we were welcomed to Mike's parents house for a tailgate party. Everyone was so kind and lively and that is how I will always remember Mike. God Bless you all.
Your cousin, Julie
Julie (Sawyer) Molenda - signed on: 05/28/2010
yesterday Mike Crowe passed away from what I'm sure was a long and valiant fight against cancer. Mike was a true gentlemen he will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and his many friends. Which I am proud to say that I was one of them. Rest in peace my friend
Larry M. Paskiewicz - signed on: 05/27/2010
Our heartfelt sympathy to your entire family during this very difficult time. We were blessed to know Mike and thankful for all of the wonderful times we shared. We will always be grateful for the times that we spent in his home and times he spent in ours, the fun we had at Expo in Chicago and at auctions and other events. Jack, our 4 year old, still talks about going to Mike's house to play games. Mike was a great friend and our entire family will miss him.
Dave, Caree, Beau and Jackson
Dave & Caree Jent & Family - signed on: 05/27/2010
Our thoughts and prayers to you and your family. Wish there was a way we could be there in your time of sorrow. If there is ever anything you need, please do not hesitate to let us know. Ohio is not that far away. Deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Your cousin,
Gary and Delores (Jacobs) Seman
Gary & Delores (Jacobs) Seman - signed on: 05/27/2010
Mike, may you rest in peace my friend.
Your time was too short and we will miss you...
Nick McCammon - signed on: 05/27/2010
Dearest Crowe Family,
Mike was one of my BHSN ’74 cherished classmates. Many of us share fond memories of good times from our youth, at reunions, around our town, at IU events, etc, etc. I’m so sorry for your loss, and keep you in thought and prayer.
In deepest sympathy,
Julie Bennett Dreesen
www.mccsc.edu/~bhsnalum/
Julie Bennett Dreesen - signed on: 05/27/2010
Beth,Lesley and Ryan, our deepest condolences go out to you during your time of loss. We want you to know how very special your father and husband was. Thousands of people visit the IU Auditorium annually and the number one comment we hear is "what a beautiful campus". Mike made sure the front entrance to the Auditorium was always "dressed" for the many special events held here. With every season, our special venue stood out on campus as being the "crown jewel" of IU. Mike made this happen. Mike will be missed by his friends and colleagues, but by you the most. Hold onto your memories as they will sustain you.

On behalf of the IU Auditorium Staff
Jayne Averitt
Jayne Averitt - signed on: 05/27/2010
The Indiana Strength & Conditioning staff wishes to extend our deepest condolences. We were given the pleasure of having Ryan as an intern with our program and he is a great young man with limitless potential. Ryan our hearts go out to you and your family. Your father was a great man.
Indiana Strength & Conditioning Staff - signed on: 05/27/2010
Like Jeff Campbell I knew Mike from 1970, Park Ridge East, University High School and North High School. Though I lost touch for a while it was good seeing him on my visit during the 25 TH class reunion. My prayers and wishes for comfort and understanding go out to his family and friends. We will all miss him and my God's blessings and comforts help his family and friends to live on with out him.
Michael Sauter Pittsburgh/PA
Michael Sauter - signed on: 05/27/2010
Thinking of your family at this very difficult time Lesley. Many prayers for you and them.
Lori-Lynn Rossino - signed on: 05/27/2010
Decades have gone by, but I fondly remember Michael as an athlete, a friend to all, and a gentleman even as a young man in high school. I'm saddened to hear of his passing, and will hold his family in prayer in this most difficult time.
Mary Keen / San Jose California - signed on: 05/27/2010
Lesley, Even though we have only known each other a short time as co-workers, we have learned so much about each other and all our families and how important our familes are to us. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your Mom and Ryan during this most difficult time. Cherish the wonderful memories that you will have to remember him by forever. God bless you and your family.
Regina Carlson - signed on: 05/27/2010
Words alone can not convey our heart felt sympathy, our hearts and prayers are with all of Mikes' family and friends. I pray that knowing the world will stop for a moment for all of us that knew Mike and loved him; I hope that this in some way gives some comfort. May compassion and empathy felt by family and friends wrap around Mikes' family and friends at this time of mourning like warm caring arms.

With Sympathy,
Billie Link Moore and Family
Billie Carol Link- Moore - signed on: 05/27/2010
Mike was a true friend, wonderful father and husband and an all around great guy. His humor and laughter was infectious. He will surely be missed by many. My heart goes out to his family and friends.

Love,
Blake Warren
Blake Warren - signed on: 05/27/2010
Mike and I got to know each other playing softball for several summers. He was always a ton of fun to be around and so well thought of by everyone. My condolences to Mike's family.
Brad May - signed on: 05/27/2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I had the pleasure of working with Mike back in the 80's. He was always very nice and made an effort to ask how I was doing. He made such an impact on so many people and places and will be truly missed.
Tony Mitchell - signed on: 05/27/2010
My memories of Mike & the Crowe family go back to the 70's & Park Ridge East, North High School, & IU sports. Our families lived close & shared good times. It was a shock to my family with Mike & his dad's illness, but we hope & pray the family finds comfort & strength with their life & contributions. My heart goes out to Mike's kids & Beth, along with Monica & Barb and the entire family. God Bless. Jeff Campbell / Indianapolis
Jeff Campbell - signed on: 05/27/2010
I came to know Mike through IU Football. He was a wonderful person and will be missed both personally and professionally by all. My condolences to his family.
Kate Sparks - signed on: 05/27/2010


Name
E-mail (Will not appear online)
Comment
To prevent automated Bots form spamming, please enter the text you see in the image below in the appropriate input box. Your comment will only be submitted if the strings match. Please ensure that your browser supports and accepts cookies, or your comment cannot be verified correctly.



© 2009 The Funeral Chapel - Powell • Deckard
Website Design by Mediaworks Advertising Agency - Bloomington, IN