GORHAM- Darlene Rowe, of Gorham, died Sunday September 20, at the Gosnell House in Scarborough, surrounded by much of her family. Born April 10, 1931, on a farm in Milton, Iowa, to parents Hollis Brown Vance and Elma Price Vance. She was the first in her family to attend college, graduating in Home Economics from Iowa State University. Married to Donald Rowe in 1952, she resided in Davenport Iowa, Williamstown, MA, and Nashua, NH.
While raising her six children, Darlene also engaged in many causes, such as AAUW, Junior League, and the Republican Party. Her multiple careers included teacher, nutritionist, preschool founder and principal, successful Realtor and consummate homemaker.
Darlene loved being a mother to her children, and even “adopted” many of their friends as sons and daughters for life. She and Don made their home the center of the family. She warmly welcomed her son and daughters-in-law, She especially enjoyed the annual family reunion - The Rowe Ruckus. She challenged each child and grandchild to utilize God-given talents to their full potential, supporting their academic, artistic and athletic endeavors.
She loved deeply and worked hard, believing “work is the highest form of love”. She took delight in life, and had a strong faith. An impeccable dresser, she loved the Red Sox, fireworks, waving her patriotic colors, listening to and watching nature, especially birds, eating ice cream at any time, and hearing her son and daughter-in-law perform the Magic of Christmas.
A Celebration of her Life will be held Saturday, 3:00 pm - Cressey Road United Methodist Church in Gorham. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to: Maine Audubon Society, American Alzheimer’s Association, Falmouth by the Sea, or a favorite educational charity.
Darlene is survived by sons Vance, Matthew, Philip, Richard and Stephen Rowe; daughter, Joyce Rowe Cassidy; four daughters-in-law; 15 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren; and sisters, Joann and Carolyn. Her husband, Don, a brother, and her parents predeceased her.
Arrangements are with Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service - Buxton. Online condolence messages can be submitted at the funeral home's website, www.mainefuneral.com