Ralph K. Crowe, 95, of Moline, IL passed away peacefully on Monday, January 12, 2026, at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House, Bettendorf, IA.

Ralph Kenneth Crowe was born July 19th, 1930, in Moline, the son of Morris and Effie Opal Crowe.  He was the second to the youngest of 8 children.  Ralph grew up in humble surroundings and was featured in John Donald O'Shea's book, Memories of the Great Depression: Last Fleeting Memories.  He had a strong work ethic his entire life.  His Dad was a carpenter and as a small child, Ralph removed nails to recycle boards from demolished houses for 1 cent per nail.  At age 10 he got a job as a caddie at Short Hills Country Club, which he did for 5 years and then worked his way up to jobs in the kitchen and dining room for many more years.  He graduated  from United Township High School and was drafted to the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.  He was stationed, state side at Fort Lee, VA. He received an honorable discharge and went to college on the GI Bill. Having a natural talent for math, Ralph graduated with honors from Black Hawk College and St. Ambrose University with a degree in accounting.

While attending Black Hawk, Ralph met the love of his life, Patricia "Pat" Strickland.  They were married on Christmas Eve,1955 at Faith Lutheran in Moline where they were active members for many years. In later years they attended First Lutheran.  Pat preceded Ralph in death in 2015.  Pat and Ralph adored each other and were the perfect pair. They lived in Rock Island for most of their marriage, where they raised their two sons. They created a family that was filled with love, respect, laughter and fun. That generational love has overflowed onto their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Ever the hard worker, Ralph used his accounting degree to work as a field agent for the IRS and eventually became an expert in estate and gift tax.  He was highly respected in the community, so much so that when he retired in 1997, he was encouraged by area attorneys to do private consulting.  He opened Crowe's Tax Service and  continued to work for over 20 more years, well into his late 80's.  He absolutely loved his work and developed wonderful relationships, which he cherished throughout his career.

Ralph enjoyed traveling throughout the states and abroad. He and Pat spent winters in Foley, AL in a family home they restored.  He was an avid bridge player and even started a bridge club at his senior living facility.  He loved all movies and all Western TV channels. He grilled the most amazing steaks for his family and friends. He had a sweet tooth and always had room for dessert, especially ice cream.  He was kind, he was gentle, he was funny and treasured by all who had the pleasure and privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his sons and daughters-in-law, Bruce (Nancy) Crowe, Coal Valley, IL and Mike "Mo" (Dorothy "Do") Crowe, Mesa, CO; grandchildren, Kelsey (Eric) Jones, Waterloo, IL and Jake (Morgan) Crowe, Evans, GA; and great granddaughters, Cora, Laina and Margo Jones, Everlie and Isla Crowe.  He is preceded in death by his wife, his parents and his siblings, Margaret Crowe, Lillian Tinsley, Gladys (Peg) Bodo, Ruth Martin, Frank Crowe, Guss Crowe and Belva VanNorman.

Funeral services will be held at First Lutheran Church in Moline at 11:00am on Thursday, January 29, 2026, with a visitation one hour before.  Burial will be at Rock Island National Cemetery, Arsenal Island.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Colorado Discover Ability.

The family would like to thank Overlook Village for providing Ralph with a beautiful home for six years. The family would also like to thank the Silvis Center and Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House for their compassionate care and support in his final days.