I know of no finer man, no better friend, no kinder soul than Bob Crowley. Watching the show every week, faithfully, with Bob brought me many laughs and great joy in a world often filled with negativism and hostility. Seeing his friends gathering weekly to support him, not knowing the outcome, was nothing short of heart-warming.  It reminded me, weekly, that friends and family are the key to a joyful life, and Bob was surely rich already. His span of friends ranges from laborers to professionals, from young to old, from rich to poor, from liberal to conservative. He shows no bias, no prejudice, no ill will.

    I have known “Crowley” (to me) for over 25 years. He has taken down hornets nests for me, relocated skunks from my yard, fixed my chimney damper, and arrived unannounced, with a couple of extra lobsters in tow more than once.  I have watched David, John and Page (their children) grow up in a home filled with love and compassion. I have shared many meals at their table, welcomed as a ‘family member.’ Bob and Peg (his wife) are loving parents, great friends, and generous spirits. Being around the Crowley family always leaves me feeling grateful for the gift of these friends.

    “Survivor” means much more than outwitting your teammates. To survive means to hold true to your values, to honor your word, to trust others and be trustworthy, to always do your best, to work for the common good and to treasure your family and friends. Bob does all of this. There is no one I know more deserving of this position—Maine’s first Survivor.

    Bob’s Dad, Gordon Crowley, died just a week before the first episode. I told Bob that he must whisper to his Dad (another fine man, by the way) the outcome, to the extent that he knew it (the final three), before his father died. I know he did that, being sure Gordon would keep his secret safe.

    If you are looking for someone to embrace as a role model for your kids, set aside the rest and consider holding up this man as someone who represents what we all should strive to do—survive in a world that challenges us everyday but one that holds gifts of friendship such as his.

    Page, David and John Crowley would surely tell you there is no better role model out there (other than Peg, of course)!

    South Portland should take this opportunity to hold this citizen in high regard for much more than winning on a television show; he represents citizenship at its best.

    I am truly honored to know you, Crowley, and to share friendship with you and your family.

Rosemarie De Angelis

South Portland