Benjamin D. Rowe

The world lost a great man on July 29, 2010 with the passing of Benjamin D. Rowe. Ben died at age 75 in the Toledo Hospital from complications of a cardiac arrest he suffered two weeks ago. He was born in Toledo, OH to Ben and Florence Rowe and they, along with his only brother, Richard, preceded him in death. Ben was a graduate of DeVilbiss High School and Bowling Green State University where he was a proud member and treasurer of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He was also very active in the ROTC. Ben retired from Baer Supply in 2009 after 16 years. Prior to that he was vice-president of Best Hardware. Ben served for two years with the US Army and 29 years with the Ohio National Guard. He held many command positions including Commander of the 137th MP Battalion in Toledo and Deputy Brigade Commander in the 416th Engineer Group. He was also on the senior staff of the Ohio Emergency Operations Headquarters in Columbus, OH. Bens favorite pastime was spending time at Devils Lake with his family. Left to cherish Bens memory is his wife of 53 years, Joan Hiser Rowe and children, Debbie Paul Symington, Kim Dave Comers, Ben Cindy Rowe, and Steve Michelle Rowe. He was the proud grandfather to Kyle, Trisha, Clay, Ben, Britton, Landon, and Tessa. He also leaves special sister-in-law, Marge Rowe and her daughters, Sue Rowe, Terri Rowe, Katie Pickens, Linda Wayne Harris, Dianne Shawn Osborn, Richelle Ryan Smith, and their much beloved families. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 3-8:00pm at the Walker Funeral Home, 5155 Sylvania Ave. west of Corey Rd.and on Monday from 10:00am until the time of service at 11:00am at Epworth United Methodist Church, 3077 Valleyview Dr. Toledo, OH 43615 with Rev. Robert Thomas officiating. The family would like to extend their appreciation to Pastor Bob for his care and concern for Ben and his family during this difficult time. Memorial contributions may be made to Epworth United Methodist Church. Online memorial contributions may be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com.