Don Crowley UT Death and Obituary – It is with profound sadness that we report the passing of Don Stuart Crowley, Jr., a beloved professor at the University of Texas at Austin, who passed away on Monday, February 25, 2025, at the age of 57. His death has left a deep void within both the university community and the broader central Texas area, where he was a long-standing advocate for water safety, education, and community service.
Don Crowley was born on April 15, 1967, in Orlando, Florida. As the eldest son of Donald Stuart Crowley, Sr. and Mary Judith McGowan Crowley, he moved with his family several times before settling in Austin, Texas, in 1977. He attended Hill Elementary, Murchison Junior High, and graduated from LC Anderson High School in 1986. During his high school years, Crowley was an active member of the band, participated in the wrestling team, and served as a Belle Beau, demonstrating an early commitment to both academics and extracurricular activities.
In 1990, Crowley earned his Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology with a minor in Architecture, Biology, and Facility Design & Management from the University of Texas at Austin. His time at the university also included his involvement in the ROTC, where he developed leadership and discipline that would influence his later professional life. Crowley’s academic achievements and dedication to education were just the beginning of his lifelong journey of impact.
Driven by a passion for aquatics, Don Crowley founded Aquaknow Aquatics, a business focused on promoting water safety. Through this endeavor, he trained thousands of lifeguards and swimmers, emphasizing the importance of water safety for both adults and children, particularly those with disabilities. His work in the aquatics field extended beyond his business, as he was an active coach with the Canyon Creek Cyclone swim team, maintaining an undefeated record.
Crowley’s commitment to water safety was not limited to his own business. He was an active board member for numerous organizations including the American Red Cross of Central Texas, the Central Texas Water Safety Coalition, the International Surf Lifeguards Association, and the National Drowning Prevention Alliance. His work in these organizations highlighted his dedication to creating safer communities, especially in relation to drowning prevention.
At the University of Texas at Austin, Don Crowley served as an Assistant Professor of Practice in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Education. He was also an American Red Cross Instructor Trainer and a coach with USA Swimming and Diving. As an educator, Crowley’s influence reached many students, who consistently praised his engaging teaching style and deep passion for aquatics. One student noted, “I took swimming for a PE credit and Don is so nice and you can tell he loves what he does!” His students appreciated not only his knowledge but his ability to connect with individuals of all swimming abilities, demonstrating his commitment to inclusive and compassionate teaching.
Don Crowley is survived by his three children, Caprice, Cruz, and Cia Crowley, his mother Judith Crowley, and his siblings David, James, John, and Jeanne Marie. He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Stuart Crowley, Sr., and his sister, Suzanne Marie. His legacy is one of dedication to water safety, education, and community, and his impact will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.
As the University of Texas at Austin and the greater Austin community mourn his loss, we also celebrate the lasting contributions he made through his work, teachings, and the countless lives he touched. Professor Don Crowley’s passion for water safety, his dedication to education, and his kindness will forever be remembered.
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