James B. Crowe, 93

James Burchell Crowe, a cherished husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at the age of 93. Born on July 22, 1931, in Chicago, Ill., he was the son of Burchell O. Crowe and Eunice Patricia Treadaway Crowe. 

James spent his formative years in Chicago before relocating to Dallas, Texas, with his mother after his parents' divorce. He and his cousin, Furnon Darby, were lovingly raised by their grandparents, Marion and Effie Belle Treadaway. In Dallas, James excelled academically and athletically as a standout running back, earning a football scholarship to the University of North Texas. 

In 1951, during the Korean War, James paused his college education to bravely serve in the U.S. Marine Corps. His service saw him stationed at Camp Pendleton, Camp Lejeune, and the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, where he also proudly played football for the Marines. Though accepted into flight school in Pensacola, his training was canceled when the war ended. He was honorably discharged in 1954 and returned to college, where he earned a B.A. in History and English with honors, followed by a master’s degree. He began his doctoral journey at the University of Southern California while imparting knowledge as a dedicated high school football coach in the Newport-Costa Mesa School District. 

In 1952, James wed Carolyn Ann Prather, the love of his life. Their marriage of 72 devoted years was an inspiring testament to their love and commitment until Carolyn's passing in July 2024. Together, they nurtured a family of four: twins Terry and Vickie (1953), James Jr. (1956) and Patty (1961). 

In 1965, James and Carolyn moved to Dalton Gardens, Idaho. There, James taught at North Idaho College and rose to Chair of the Social Science Department. The family thrived in Dalton Gardens, and later in 1972, James built his dream home on Hayden Lake. He spent many summers teaching all the kids and their friends to swim, water ski and sail. He taught his daughter, Patty, at the age of 10, to drive the boat so she could take him and Carol to HLCC, drop him off at the dock, then pick him up safely after a great game of golf, dinner and cocktails. 

The 1970s marked James's successful transition into home building, becoming one of North Idaho's leading builders. He served as president of both local and state home builders’ associations and even as a national vice president of the National Association of Home Builders. His pioneering efforts gave rise to one of the first computer-based “Fast Track” building programs, setting a standard in the industry across the nation. 

In 1978, James entered the political arena, running for governor of Idaho in the Republican primary. A firm Reagan conservative, he remained actively involved in civic life throughout his years. 

Never one to slow down, James earned a law degree with honors from Gonzaga University in 1993 at the age of 62. He practiced law in Idaho, Washington and Nebraska. He loved doing pro bono work for clients needing help with any kind of contract or retail law. He retired in 2019. 

Beyond his professional endeavors, James cherished his time with family and spent winter weekends driving up to Schweitzer and teaching his whole family how to snow ski. He enjoyed golfing at the Hayden Lake Country Club and, in later years, spent winters in Maui and Palm Springs. He developed many special relationships with staff and fellow owners. His Ohana! He served on the board for many years in Maui and later became President of Maui Kaanapali Villas. In 2004, he bought a cabin at Priest Lake and spent many summers with his family. He loved fishing with his son-in-law, J.B., grilling, beach campfires and fabulous sunsets. He rode his jet ski until the age of 86. 

James leaves behind a strong legacy through his children: daughter and caregiver, Patricia McGinnis Romero RN (J.B. Romero); Terry McKernan; James Crowe Jr.; as well as grandchildren: Amie Anderson, Esq. (Matt), Jamie Green (Robert, Esq.), Michael Hays (Cheryl), Commander James R. Crowe, USN (Lindsey), Stephanie West (Donald), Makena Mehringer (Lane), Alyssa Romero, Chad Teeter, and Christina Michalosky (Jeremy). He is also survived by 14 great-grandchildren: Bennett, Evan and Owen Anderson (triplets); Sophia, Scarlett, Sam and Sullivan Green; Ryan Teeter; Ragan and Hadley West; Sawyer Hays; Logan, Ellie and Kennedy Crowe; Ian Michalosky; and one great-great-grandchild, Taylor Teeter. 

James's memory will endure as a symbol of service, leadership, and unwavering love for his country, community, and especially his family. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In honor of his memory, the family will hold a small private graveside ceremony with full military honors. They kindly ask that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Canopy Village (canopyservices.org) or Hospice of North Idaho (hospiceofnorthidaho.org)

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. George Bell, Lori Rembe ARNP, Reliant Healthcare, FirstLight Homecare and Hospice of North Idaho for their compassionate care. 

Please visit James’s online memorial and share memories in his guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.