Penelope Crowe Obituary

CROWE, Penelope Anne (nee Marks)
October 2, 1938 - September 4, 2025
Early in the morning of September 4th Penny died quietly at Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria BC. Sharp, inquisitive, and steadfast in her independent ways, Penny was truly unique.
At the age of 19, Penny boldly immigrated to Canada from Woodbridge, England. Though her widowed mother eventually joined her for a number of years, she would always miss the companionship of her dear brother Jonny (d. 2015). In Vancouver she aspired to a career in dance but was soon diverted by marriage to Ross Filippone (d. 2007) and an unwavering commitment to their children. Elements of her life at this time are vividly recounted in the book "Liquor, Lust and the Law" (Arsenal Pulp Press 2017). This book brought to light a selection of Nana Filippone's southern Italian dishes that Penny had lovingly learned, recorded and attempted to publish in the 1970s.
Among friends she encountered in Vancouver at this time, she was widely admired for fashion statements that matched her affinity for natural beauty and design. Those who met Penny in the 1960s and 1970s often remember the impression she made at the time. What may have been dismissed as "hippy-garb" was most often a look at the face of things to come.
A second marriage to Ken Crowe (d. 2013) lead to a formative part of her life based in Berkeley and southern France. In California she created flower arrangements under the tutelage of Bay Area florist, and her dear friend, Barbara Erfani. San Francisco nurtured her lifelong appreciation for ballet, modern dance, classical music, literature and film. Penny also extended her culinary talents based on the 'New American Cuisine' of Alice Waters and was delighted by food and cultural discoveries in France. Her spiritual beliefs were solidified through the close-knit Catholic community of Pt. Richmond CA and later, Victoria BC.
Shortly after daughter Maria's move to Victoria in 1998, Penny settled in at 10 Mile Point near Oak Bay. The natural beauty of this area was highlighted in her playful and perceptive oil painting and a wonderful place for long walks with her dearly loved Labrador Retrievers. It was also while living near Cadboro Bay that Penny found love and close companionship with Robert Horn. Our thoughts go out to him and to all who miss her dearly. It is sure that she was well loved.
Penny is survived by her children, Joey (Jean), Danny (Jackie), Maria and her grandchildren, Carina, Gina, Cameron and Justin.
In lieu of flowers, friends are welcome to make a donation to a charity of their choice.

Friday September 12, 2025 -12 noon
Catholic Funeral, Saint Andrew's Cathedral

Saturday, September 13th 2025 -11am
Catholic Burial, green interment at Royal Oak Burial Park. Reception to follow. All are welcome.