"Cullen is our hero" - Son of Irish American former Congressman dies from rare cancer

Former New York Congressman Joe Crowley, a prominent voice in Irish American politics, has announced the passing of his 25-year-old son, Joseph 'Cullen' Crowley.

Cullen died on Sunday, May 25, after being diagnosed with Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor (DSRCT) in December 2022.

A heartwrenching obituary says: "Cullen was born on August 19, 1999, in New York City to Joseph Francis Crowley and Kasey Anne Nilson.

"Though born in Manhattan, the neighborhoods of Queens always felt like home to Cullen. He treasured countless moments spent with family and friends, playing in the streets with his sister, Kenzie, and singing along to Irish tunes.

"From a young age, Cullen found peace and joy during visits to family in Montana. Time spent with his grandparents and cousins, exploring Big Sky Country, gave him a deep appreciation for nature, the beauty of this great country, and the bonds of family.

"In 2003, the Crowley family moved to Arlington, Virginia, to spend more time together. Cullen became a big brother once more when Liam was born. Cullen attended Jamestown Elementary School and Williamsburg Middle School, where he made lifelong friendships.

"Cullen’s greatest desire in life was to serve his country. It was in his blood — but even more, it was rooted deeply in his heart.

"During his years at Gonzaga College High School, that calling only deepened as he developed a profound appreciation for our nation and for all who have fought to protect its freedoms.

"He first set his sights on the U.S. Naval Academy at the age of 12, after attending a football game there. From that moment on, nothing could deter him.

"He fulfilled his dream in 2018 when he became a Midshipman — a chapter he often described as the most challenging yet most rewarding part of his life. He never quit or complained, facing every obstacle with his trademark determination.

"In 2022, Cullen graduated from the Naval Academy as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps and continued his training at Quantico. Following his cancer diagnosis, he officially retired in 2024 as a first lieutenant. Though it wasn’t the ending he had envisioned, he never wavered in his identity: he was, and always would be, a Marine.

"When faced with Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor — a rare and aggressive form of cancer — Cullen had only one option: to fight. And for two and a half years, he did just that, with the kind of courage and resilience one would expect from a Marine. He never let the odds define him. Instead, he met each day with the same joy and gratitude for life that he had always carried.

"We are forever grateful to Cullen’s extraordinary team of doctors and nurses at Johns Hopkins Medicine, to the U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. Naval Academy, Gonzaga College High School, and to our beloved family and friends near and far — especially Dr. Mark Brennan and Debbie Tillery — for the steadfast love and support they gave Cullen, and us, through every step of his journey.

"When we think of Cullen, we can’t help but smile. He radiated an infectious and genuine love of life — one that lifted the spirits of everyone around him. Cullen had a remarkable gift for making even the ordinary feel extraordinary. Whether it was a day on the boat or an evening strumming his guitar, time spent with him felt unforgettable. And no dance floor went untouched when Cullen was around.

"Cullen is our hero. We are endlessly proud of the man he became and feel so blessed to call him ours. The fact that he touched so many lives is an honor we will always cherish.

"Cullen is survived by his parents, Joseph and Kasey; his younger siblings, Kenzie and Liam; his grandparents, Kathrine and Hank Nilson; his great-uncle George; his uncles, aunts, and cousins in New York, Montana, and his extended family in Ireland."

A funeral Mass for Cullen Crowley will be held in St. Aloysius Church at Gonzaga College High School in Washington, DC, on Friday, June 6, with a reception to follow at The Dubliner.

Cullen is set to be buried in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

The Crowley family has requested that in lieu of flowers, contributions in Cullen's memory may be made to The Cullen Crowley '17 Annual Scholarship or the Semper Fi Foundation.