Michael Crowe (1941-2021)

The sudden passing of Michael Crowe came as a shock to all who knew him, leaving a big void for many. I had known Michael for almost 28 years – he was one of the first people I met in Ireland when at Easter of 1993 I came to the Jury’s hotel in Ballsbridge to play in two weekend tournaments. Michael was controlling those tournaments and that is how we met. Little did I know then that he would become one of my closest friends despite a considerable age difference. Through our work together, I got to know and appreciate Michael’s wit, his work ethic and his love of chess.

Most people involved in chess in Ireland would have met Michael Crowe in at least one of his many roles – that of an arbiter, organiser, ICU officer, player or coach. He also used to edit the ‘Irish Chess Journal’ for many years. Over the years, he introduced thousands of children to chess – through his work with the ESB Checkmate, Chess for All and his private teaching. Michael Crowe’s influence on Irish chess was enormous and it will be felt for many years. He will be sorely missed.

Alexander Baburin, 6th of February 2021. Kilkenny Chess Club, where Michael was a lifetime member, send their condolences to his family.