L Daniel Crowley

"I'll be here in sunshine or in shadow.

Oh, Danny Boy, oh Danny Boy,

I love you so."

Daniel departed this life early in the morning on October 5th. He passed away peacefully under the tender care of his hospice nurses.

He is survived by his two children, Jennifer Crowley Hardin (Michael) and Brandon Frechette (Cassandra); six granddaughters; one great-grandchild; sisters Gail Crowley Rice (Alan Nahoum) and Colleen Crowley Hein (Bruce); niece Holly Smith (Stephen Jones); and nephews Jeff Hein (Allisen) and Michael Hein. Many other relatives, including cousins, step- and half-siblings also mourned his passing.

Daniel served as an Underwater Fire Control Technician and Chief Petty Officer aboard the USS Whale (SSN-638) for the US Navy during the 1970s. He earned several honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation with three Bronze Stars, and the Navy Expeditionary Medal. Daniel was also a proud VFW member, Post Commander, and often led military parades as Master of Ceremonies.

After serving in the Navy, Daniel became a Chief Quality Officer, providing seminars, consulting, and training for local businesses across various sectors. He authored two QA Tips books, judged the 2009 California Team Excellence Award, and later mentored entrepreneurs through SCORE, a non-profit affiliated with the Small Business Administration.

Daniel spent over twenty years in Modesto, California, forming friendships through his bowling league, VFW, CalPride men's group, and Unity Church. He is remembered for his stories, compassion, and great sense of humor.

He will be interred at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery in the spring of 2026. The ceremony will be attended by his immediate family, as well as his close friend and fellow shipmate, Jim Wavada. Following the service, a celebration of Daniel's life will take place, during which other family members and friends are invited to deliver eulogies and participate in a 'Parting Glass' in his honor.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any remembrances or donations for medical and final expenses be sent to Daniel Crowley Memorial, 18902 River Woods Drive, Bend, OR 97702.