My (step) Dad is full of surprises and because of his progressing dementia, my family isn't ever sure which of the memories he shares with us are fact and which are fabricated so, I was shocked to find out that my dad had a connection to Binghamton that he kept from me for the 12 years that I've lived here.

At a recent work luncheon that my parents were invited to, a fascinating chapter in my Dad's past shed light on an unexpected connection between my family and the Crowley Foods family of Binghamton.

During the luncheon, I discovered that my Dad, unbeknownst to me, had been friends with Elmer Crowley, a key figure in the Crowley Foods legacy. As I was listening to my Dad sharing his story of friendship, I wasn't sure if it was the truth but some digging revealed that he was friends with Mr. Crowley.

What drew Mr. Crowley and my Dad together was a shared passion for Lincoln Continental cars, which solidified their bond through their active participation in car shows and car clubs.

As the story goes, my Dad and Elmer Crowley found common ground in their appreciation for the elegance and craftsmanship of Lincoln Continental cars. Their mutual admiration for these classic vehicles served as the cornerstone of their friendship.

Through my dad's recollections, I learned that Elmer was not only a fellow car enthusiast but also a true gentleman in every sense of the word. His kindness, generosity, and genuine nature left a lasting impression on my dad, illustrating the depth of their friendship that transcended their shared hobby.

Exploring Elmer Crowley's legacy further, I dug into his obituary (which can be found here) to learn more about the life of this remarkable individual. The obituary highlighted Elmer's contributions to the Crowley Foods family and his impact on the Binghamton community, painting a vivid picture of a man who was not just a successful businessman but also a truly loved member of his community.

In discovering this newfound connection to Elmer Crowley and the Crowley Foods family, I was struck by the unexpected ways in which our lives intersect with those of others, weaving together a tapestry of shared experiences and relationships that transcend time and circumstance.

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I'm grateful that I overheard my Dad's story and this hidden chapter of my family's history was uncovered. Sometimes the most meaningful connections are the ones that are discovered unexpectedly.

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