On the evening of Thursday, May 2, 2019, Richard “Rick” Rowe, loving husband and father of six passed away unexpectedly of a massive stroke at the age of 44. He was born July 3, 1974 at Fort Lewis Army Base in Washington State at the Madigan hospital to Beverlee Jean (Booher) Rowe “Jeanie” and Richard Floyd Rowe. Rick loved his country and loved that the whole nation celebrated his birth with fireworks every year. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington in political science with a minor in economics in 2001. Rick soon realized computers were the way of the future and started studying to get his first of many computer certifications on the way to becoming a network architect.
He spent most of his younger days in Redmond, Washington where he grew in stature and infamy among friends and family. Rick is the second child and oldest son of five children. From a young age, he always knew what he wanted and worked hard to get it, beginning with his first words which were, “gimme back my candy”. When he decided something was worth doing, he put in the necessary work to excel at it. Rick played several sports in his younger years before dedicating his efforts to volleyball and swimming. While in high school, he competed in nationals and state respectively.
Rick always had a strong desire to take control of his future and was willing to work for it even as young boy. He did paper routes, mowed lawns, sold golf balls, taught swim lessons and lifeguarded. Rick continued to work hard serving as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the California, Riverside Mission in the Spanish language. Serving a two-year mission at the age of 19 was one example of Rick’s lifelong willingness to sacrifice his own time in service to others.
He had a big heart that had room for everyone. Rick spent most of his adult life teaching and mentoring the youth at church. He was born with an unwavering moral compass. Rick saw the world in terms of right and wrong and there was no room for compromise. He did not suffer fools well.
Rick had his own way of communicating with the world. Instead of addressing you by your own name, he would give you a nick name such as “Wuss Bait”, “Missing Muscles”, “Slappy” and “Jennalerd”. Rather than an affectionate hug, Rick would squish your face, put you in a head lock, smack your head or tease you.
At the age of eight, Rick met a little brown haired girl at church that unbeknownst to him would later become his coworker, best friend, girlfriend, “boss” and future wife. Together they grew to become a formidable team and the best of partners. After being sealed for time and all eternity in the Seattle Washington Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, they relocated to Texas.
There they built an amazing life together, traveled the world together and most importantly raised six wonderful children together. His family was his greatest joy in his life, and every decision he made was made with their best interest in mind. Rick intentionally pursued a career that would allow him the means and flexibility to create memories with his kids. His wife and kids will remember epic adventures with their dad as well as special everyday moments. They created traditions that will endure long after he’s gone. Some of their favorites are Christmas Eve scones, football games, one on one trips with mom and dad and Thanksgiving with friends and family.
He is survived by his wife, Jennalee Rowe; children, Gabrielle, Zackery, Alivia, Megan, Josie and Isaiah; mother, Beverlee Rowe; and four siblings.
Rick was preceded in death by his father, Floyd Rowe.
A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, May 11, 2019 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2801 Eldorado Parkway, McKinney, Texas 75070. Interment is to follow at Ridgeview Memorial Park in Allen, Texas. The family will receive friends during a visitation on Friday evening from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow in Allen, Texas.