Reg # 20083 William Denton Coleman (Bill) Rowan
Staff Sergeant (Retired)
1935 - 2024

Years of Service 1957 - 1990
Postings: Depot, "F", "K", "H" and "L" Divisions

RCMP Veterans' Association Life Member
Kingston Division

Obituary and Condolences

April 9, 1935 - October 27, 2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of William D.C. Rowan on October 27, 2024. A man of compassion, great humour and the deepest kindness.

Born in Bethany, Ontario on April 9th 1935, William was the son of Walter and Laura Rowan. Much loved brother of the late Yvonne, Lauretta, Christella, Cameron and Brenda.

William served in the RCMP for 33 years and is survived by his beloved wife, of 36 years, Ardie Rowan. William was the cherished father of Carla Rowan and Dawn Rowan. Stepfather to David MacPhail (Caroline MacPhail) and Charlene Desroches (Pierre Desroches). Adored grandfather of Spencer Long, Oliver Long, Grace Rowan-Quansah, Nicholas Herring, Noah MacPhail, Zachary MacPhail, Alec Campbell, Stephanie Desroches and Melissa Desroches and great-grandfather of 7.

William will be sadly missed by many nieces and nephews and dearly remembered by relatives and friends. William was deeply loved by so many and he lived a long and fruitful life.

Dad’s special way of expressing love and connecting with others was often through his teasing way, his pet names, and quick- witted sense of humour. Our many cousins lovingly remind us that Dad was often referred to as “the fun Uncle.”

Dad was always a sports fan. He enjoyed playing football and baseball, among other things as a youth, and curling and golf later on. He and mom made inroads into many of those small towns we lived in, often becoming an integral part of the community through their shared enjoyment of these social sports. Dad and Ardie continued their shared enjoyment of watching sports. They still loved watching hockey, although Dad often reminded us that they only made it through the first period before bedtime at Dundas Manor.
Dad and Ardie enjoyed travelling in their motor home, especially after his retirement in 1990. They would travel extensively from coast to coast in Canada and much of the US, even up the Alaska highway. Enjoying many musical performances was also a favourite on their list.

Dad was the last of the Rowan siblings to leave this Earth. What a grand reunion it must be!

A special thanks to the Staff of Dundas Manor in Winchester. Their kindness and compassion will not be forgotten. Also, endless gratitude to David and Caroline for their care and support over the years, getting Dad to all his appointments and everything else that needed tending to that we could not do from a distance.

In accordance with Bill’s wishes cremation has taken place. A Service/Celebration of Life will be held at a later date at the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery at Beechwood, Ottawa.

“Take me home country roads…”

Donations may be made to Dundas Manor in Winchester, ON. (via the Winchester District Memorial Hospital Foundation).

Remembered with respect and gratitude for his service.

Bill Rowan joined the RCMP on July 15, 1957. He retired at the rank of Staff Sergeant on July 17, 1990.

 

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