Philip "Phil" L. Crowell, age 93, passed in the early morning hours on Saturday, December 2, 2023 at Ohio's Hospice in Dayton. He embraced a peaceful departure having lived his life to the fullest.
The last of his family of origin, he was preceded in death by his parents, Lydia Elizabeth and Leigh Roy; two sisters, Dorothy (James) Grossman and Frances (Vernon) Davis; a niece and nephew Marcella Jean Davis and Philip Davis; his son-in-law Stan Ross, as well as his beloved wife and partner of 56 years, Diana.
Born May 5, 1930 in Wellston, Ohio, he moved to Columbus in 1938 and graduated from South High School, where he developed his interests in mechanical drawing, drafting, and music, playing French horn in the band and orchestra and winning induction into the National Honor Society. Following his graduation in 1948, he enlisted in the U. S. Navy, serving in the Pacific during the Korean Conflict and specializing in radio and electronics. Upon discharge, he returned to Columbus, married his high school sweetheart, the former Diana Klein, and enrolled at the Ohio State University, from which he graduated in 1957 with a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering. For the next twenty years, he worked as an electrical engineer, notably at NCR in Dayton. In 1964, he joined Westminster Presbyterian Church, becoming active in the Westminster Choir and supporting the music programs of the church and community.
As he approached his 50th year, Phil made a career pivot to pursue his true passion and become a pipe organ technician. The instrument had fascinated him since childhood. Phil, along with Diana, owned and operated the Crowell Pipe Organ Service for more than 25 years, working to tune, repair, maintain, and install instruments throughout the region. He joined the local chapter of the American Guild of Organists and particularly enjoyed traveling to the national conventions of the American Institute of Organbuilders.
Phil is survived by his two children, Patrice Ross and David (Sherri) Crowell; two grandchildren, Rebecca (Dông) St. Hyss and Thomas Ross; and namesake great-grandson, Philippe St. Hyss. He is also survived by countless extended family members and friends.
A private interment will take place at Woodland Cemetery and Arboretum. A public memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on January 8th 2024 at Westminster Presbyterian Church.
Phil lived his life fully, following his passions and devoting himself to their success. The family suggests that any memorial contributions be made in his honor and memory to something the giver is passionate about, in emulation of how he lived his life.
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