Gary Eugene Rowe was born on August 24, 1943 in Keokuk, IA, the son of Elvin and Enola (Kooney) Rowe. Gary entered into eternal peace on Friday, June 4, 2021 in Oakland, IA, at the age of 77 years.
Gary’s early years were spent in the community of Montrose, Iowa. It was here that he graduated from high school. Following graduation he enlisted in the United States Army. While serving his country he was united in marriage to Janette Elaine Smith on April 22, 1961 in Chicago, Illinois. While in the service the couple lived in California and Hawaii. Upon his honorable discharge Gary worked for the Sante Fe Railroad in Topeka. The couple moved to Scranton, Kansas where he worked for a fish hatchery and did several other jobs including construction maintenance. In 1984 the couple moved to Macedonia, Iowa and Gary started his career in woodworking. After raising their family, the couple enjoyed traveling to various craft shows and selling their goods. He was a very talented woodworker. In 1994 they moved to a farm outside of Northboro. Following Janette’s passing in 2019 Gary remained on the farm until February of 2020 when he moved to Oakland.
Some of Gary’s passions included fishing, hunting, fixing things, camping and spending time with his family. He was a loving father to six children and a devoted grandfather. He was blessed to be able to spend 57 years with his beloved Janette and it is a blessing that today, they have been reunited.
He was preceded in death by his parents and loving wife Janette. Those left to cherish his memory include his children; Alphia Stanley of Carbondale, KS, Donna Carter (Marvin) of Oakland, IA, Janette Looper (Mike) of Hancock, IA, Gary Rowe, Jr. (Suzie) of Burlingame, KS, William Rowe of Topeka, KS and Charles Rowe (Jenny) of Hancock, IA; 13 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; brother Robert Rowe of Keokuk, IA; other relatives and a host of friends.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 12, 2021 at Rieken Vieth Funeral Home in Oakland, IA from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Graveside service at Belknap Cemetery at 1:00 PM. Rieken Funeral Home is assisting family with arrangements.
