Donald Allen Crowe, 74, Lawrence, Kansas passed away from a sudden illness on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at SSM Health Depaul Hospital in St. Louis, MO. Don and his wife had been on a trip to Europe and were returning home.
Don was born on October 24, 1949, in Chicago, IL, the son of Otis and Bernice (Howland) Crowe. Don grew up in St. Francis, Kansas. His family moved to Lawrence in 1963. He attended West Junior High School. He graduated from LHS in 1967.
Don began his working career at the KU Traffic and Security Department from 1967 to 1970. At the age of 21, Don began his law enforcement career as a patrolman and investigator at KU. In 1976, he began serving the citizens of Douglas County as a Deputy Sheriff. While at the Sheriff’s Office, Don was promoted to Lieutenant supervising the patrol division and the county jail. He was admired for his dedicated service and mentoring of deputies.
Don was involved with Troop 59 scouting during his son’s scouting years. Don made trips with the Troop to Isle Royale, Sea Base, Flattops, and Bartle. He also was Assistant Scoutmaster for a troop in Plainville, Kansas.
He married Karen Ann Seiwald on June 1, 1976, in Lawrence, KS. She survives at home.
Don retired from the Sheriff’s Office on September 17, 2004. In his retirement, he and Karen logged 90,000 miles in 49 United States and did volunteer work at many state and national parks. When he was not traveling, he enjoyed nature, reading and watching local sports.
Other survivors include his son, Reid (Lindsey) Crowe, brother, Gary (Julie) Crowe, granddaughter, Madelynn Crowe, and a godson, Will Pendleton.
Donald was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Jeffrey Crowe, and his beloved cat, Bilbo.
A celebration of life is being planned.
Memorial contributions may be made in Don’s name to the Lawrence Humane Society or Kansas Public Radio and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.
For more information or to post a condolence go to warrenmcelwain.com.
