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John Henry Rowe was a well known name ,particularly in the community of the Pioneer Valley. It is appropriate to publish his achievements ,not only due to number restrictions at his funeral, but to honor his generous contributions to the community. John was born in Mackay on the 11th August 1926,at the Ormond Hospital {later named the Mater} to Henry and Margaret Rowe of "The Hollow" John had a younger brother Harold, who predeceased him.
John attended early schooling in Mirani and later at the Intermediate School in Mackay, and then onto Gatton Agricultural College.
After graduating from College in 1944,John worked on his fathers farm till 1952,when he purchases his own farm at Otterburn. John married Joyce Lilian Potts on the 30th September 1950,in St.Paul's Uniting Church, the same Church for his funeral Service. Out of this happy marriage produced four children, Alan, Roslyn, Geoffrey and Leonie.
John quickly developed in serving his community.
He was registered as a Justice of the Peace in 1976,and it was common for people to call wanting papers witnessed and signed. He was ordained as an Elder of The Uniting Church in 1974.He had this role for many years, whilst Joyce played the Piano or Organ on Sunday Services.
He was also active in the Mirani Rotary Club for some eight to ten years. being appointed foundation Secretary and later President in 1977-1978.He was also Secretary of the Mirani Primary P and C Committee, where he remained active for the duration of his childrens schooling. John also showed an interest in ,not only the youth of tomorrow, but was also involved in the elderlys wellbeing.
The Valley Retirement Home was also a beneficiary of his tireless efforts where he canvasses for donations and applied for Grants. He was also involved in the establishment of the original Kindergarten, acting as Advisor, on the Committee in the mid 1970s.Later,when the new Kindergarten was built, he was Chairman of the new Building Committee in 1993-1994 involved also in collection of donations and organizing voluntarily labor for the construction. The Mirani kindergarten today, is still a valuable asset for the children of the future. At Christmas breakups, John enjoyed dressing up as Santa Claus.And he was always kindly rewarded with a box of chocolates or tin of biscuits. The local branch of the CWA appointed John as their Returning Officer, one of the many voluntarily positions he undertook with pride.
The Mirani Shire Council recognized his commitment to the community with a presentation of "Citizen of the Year" award in 1990.
Free Masonary was an enduring part of Johns life, being awarded his 60 year Jewel and his 65 year Hamilton Lodge service award ,in recognition and membership of Freemasonary.
One of Johns greatest loves was growing sugarcane. He spent many days on the tractor, and he passed on his knowledge of farming to his two sons, both of whom later were farmers.in their own right.
His main love was for his extended family. John had a very happy marriage with Joyce, his beloved wife. Due to his strong religious background, Johns outlook was that he was looking forward to his new life.
The family would like to thank the many people who sent sympathy cards, phone calls , the staff at Carlisle Gardens,and special thanks to Kerrisdale Gardens staff also.
John passed away at peace,on the 10th April 2020.He leaves behind four children, grandfather to thirteen, and greatfather to nineteen.
CONTRIBUTED.
