of Flippin, AR
April 24, 1939 - August 18, 2023
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the death of Gary Monroe Rowse, age 84, who passed away August 18, 2023 after battling cancer.
Gary was born in Genesee County, Michigan to Duane and Viva Rowse (nee Monroe). He graduated from Utley High and attended WNMU in Silver City, New Mexico where, as a multi-sport athlete, he earned a degree in Education. During his time at WNMU, he met Patricia Hunter, who would become his wife and the mother of his five children.
After college, Gary taught Industrial Education and coached football and basketball at the high school level in Michigan before starting a career in mining. He worked at Kennecott Copper in Silver City, New Mexico for several years and then relocated his family to Salem, Missouri for a career advancement opportunity.
Gary enjoyed golf, jeeping with friends, searching for arrowheads and pottery and exploring old mines in the Southwest. His love for hands-on work led him to his garage, where he spent countless hours on home improvement projects, building and tinkering with cars and various other projects. It wasn't a solitary pursuit, his garage often served as a gathering place for his kids and friends alike, who all benefited from his wealth of tools and knowledge.
Gary and Patty eventually divorced and after working in the St. Louis area, he retired and bought a ranch in Ellington, Missouri, his happy place, where he had horses, chickens, ducks and countless dogs. Fishing held a special place in his heart, he loved spending time on the water in his boat. After living in Thayer, Missouri, followed by a brief return to Silver City, he moved to Flippin, Arkansas to live on the river.
At the time of his passing, Gary was under the care of Twin Lakes Therapy and Living, where he received wonderful care from a dedicated staff who adored him.
Gary is survived by his children, Michael Rowse (Linda) Silver City, New Mexico, Sherry Olden (John) Park City, Utah, Corby Short (Arlen) Apex, North Carolina, Amye Rowse Salt Lake City, Utah and Alison Rowse Salt Lake City, Utah; grandchildren, Jocelyn Rowse, Marissa Rowse, Macey Olden, Ryder Olden, Madison Short, Chelsie Lynch (Adrian), Drew Rowse and great granddaughter, Ava Monroe Wooten. He is also survived by his two sisters, Sharon Brannon (Marvin) and Joann Wismer.
Arrangements by Roller-Burns Funeral Home in Yellville are private
I know more of Gary's family then I knew him. I met him once and he was awesome. He hosted me and his daughter Amye Rowse, for a week of farm fun in Missouri. It was great fun ridding the horses, and doing all the farm chores. My favourite part was watching him dote on his daughter Amye. And he was not a "doting" guy... but as he guided us on how to handle the horses, he would beam brightly as Amye would "cut" the horse just right or do something else that showed "she was a natural." I've heard the stories and seen the photos and all I know forsure is that Gary was a LEGEND and left us soooooo much in the family that are because he lived. His kids and his grandkids will carry on his legacy and be a light to others, because he lived. RIP big man. Because of you I have my best friend and for that I am forever grateful! Hugs and love to all the Rowse family. - Monique
Rest easy dad. I’ll remember you every time I drive down a country road, fish, see an old Chevy, hear an old country song (especially Hank Sr), smell some sawdust, or see someone scared of snakes 😅….and a million other things that make up large parts of who I am. Thanks for the laughs, the lessons (even the ‘hot seat’), and for all the love- especially at the end. See you later daddy-o
I loved this man from the moment I met him and still have a place for him in my heart even now. Best hugger, jokster, and patient ever.....with all my heart DOC
I am so thankful for the time I spent with you earlier this summer. I will forever treasure the precious conversations, the laughs, listening to you sing and holding your big strong hands. I will miss you forever, I love you! Rest in peace Dad.
My condolences to the extended Rowse family on the loss of Dad, Grandpa, Uncle and more, Gary. To my second cousins I will always remember your Dad and the extended family at holiday events and beyond. Gary was a force of energy and adventure and I hope he is enjoying his Jeep playing Rat Patrol in heaven. Love to you all, Wally
May the many positive memories, his words of wisdom and love, and the fun experiences with him guide you all In healing as you process this loss.
Sending much sympathy and prayers for peace. â¤ï¸
I am so grateful that I got to see you this summer, Dad. Days spent talking, looking at pictures, sharing memories and stories, laughing, loving and healing. I will always hold you in my heart. We love you, rest in peace. 😘â¤ï¸
Sherry, John, Macey and Ryder
You'll be so deeply missed, remembered as our father who gave laughter, love and interesting golf lessons! You are with your loved ones now. May peace find you at last. I love you dad.