RIP Harold “Babe” Crowley

Back in the summer of 2016 a terrible tragedy occurred that impacted my family and the Downeast Community. A sudden storm came up, while my cousin, Michael Popper, his wife Jennifer and local guide Ed Brackett were kayaking near Corea.

Sadly, Ed and Michael passed away, while Jennifer miraculously survived clinging to the kayak while nearly perishing due to hypothermia.

It is reported that Harold "Babe" Crowley called all the local fisherman from Corea and the surrounding towns to find Michael, Ed and Jennifer when they didn't return at the expected time. They told Cheryl, Ed's wife that they wouldn't return without finding them. "Babe"'s wife, Pam, sat with Cheryl while the search took place.

The bodies of Michael and Ed were found. Jennifer was rescued and lifeflighted to Bangor. My family owes a debt of gratitude to the fishermen, the Coast Guard, Marine Patrol, Life Flight and the doctors and nurses at Northern Light.

According to "Babe"'s obituary in the Bangor Daily News, he passed away at the age of 90 on Tuesday, August 3rd with his wife Pam, and other family members by his side.

There will be visiting hours tonight, Thursday, August 5, from 6-8 p.m. at Bragdon-Kelley Funeral Home, 215 Main Street in Ellsworth. Funeral service will be held on Friday, August 6, at 3 p.m. at Corea Baptist Church with Charles Kelley officiating.