Richard Francis Rowe Jr., hardworking man

Richard Francis Rowe Jr., 85, of Millsboro, passed away Monday, July 31, 2023, after a brief illness. He was born March 27, 1938, in Wilmington, son of the late Richard F. and Florence M. (Lally) Rowe.

Richard was a hard worker who attended Brown Vocational School, becoming a plumber. He spent most of his working years at Brandywine Construction, where he earned the respect and friendship of many coworkers. On any car ride, he enjoyed pointing out and telling stories of any site that was "Brandywine's job." He also owned and operated Brandywine Contracting. What he cherished most was time spent with family and friends. Richard was loved by many, and his presence will be forever missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Richard was preceded in death by his wife in 2014, Elaine (Sweede), after 55 years of marriage. He was the happiest when they were together taking cruises, fishing, going for car rides out in the country, working in their large gardens and going out for a little bite to eat. Richard missed her every day. Shortly after Elaine's passing, his son, Rick, passed away. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Leo; sister, Florence Ramey; and his brother-in-law, Harold Sweede. He is survived by his daughter, Lynn Talmo of Millsboro; his daughter-in-law, Susan of Selbyville; his brother, Paul (Susan) of Vermont; his brother-in-law, William Sweede; his sister-in-law, Doris Buchanan; his grandchildren: Brian (Caitlin) Rowe, Ellen (Christopher) Rhodes, Kevin (Kristi) Rowe, Leanne (Korey) Hearn, Dana (Dave Bird) Talmo, and Matthew Talmo; and his four great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Aug. 4, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes, where friends may visit beginning at 10 a.m.

Visit Mr. Rowe's Life Memorial webpage and sign his virtual guestbook at parsellfuneralhomes.com.