Barbara G. Rowe, versatile volunteer
Barbara Gwendolyn "Barb" Rowe, 88, of Millsboro passed away Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023, at Renaissance Healthcare in Millsboro. She was born March 28, 1935, in Cleveland, Ohio, daughter of the late Howard J. Rowe and Helen (Black) Rowe.
Barb lived in Cleveland until she was about 8 years old, when her father was transferred to Pittsburgh. Her father was an accomplished mechanical engineer with Alcoa and had several patents. Barb's mother was trained as a nurse and did significant volunteer work during World War II.
Barb earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Denison University in Granville, Ohio. She then furthered her education, obtaining a master's degree from Walsh College. Barb's education propelled her toward an illustrious career as a virologist, working for such companies as Parke Davis Pharmaceutical Company (now Pfizer) for over 20 years, as well as working in the lab at Childrens Hospital, retiring after many dedicated years in the pathology field.
Barb's hobbies were active and constructive. Beginning early in life, she enjoyed running, photography, traveling and orienteering, and was an avid rock and gem collector. She believed in giving back to her community and offered her time often to those in need, volunteering with AARP to prepare people’s taxes for free. While living in Rehoboth Beach for the past 20 years, she volunteered at Beebe Hospital and Rehoboth Beach Public Library, and sang in the Epworth United Methodist Church Chancel Choir.
A nurturer at heart, Barb was a devoted animal lover and had many pets in her lifetime. Her presence will be dearly and genuinely missed by all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.
In addition to her parents, Barb was predeceased by her longtime companion, Pat Hansen. She is survived by her sister, Linda Rowe, and her best friend Judith Brooks, both of Palms, Mich.; and several cousins.
Barb's family would like to acknowledge and thank Cathy Benson and Susan Jimenez for their loving care of Barb over the past few years as her health declined, as well as members of Epworth United Methodist Church who visited, and sent cards and letters to her.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 13, at Epworth United Methodist Church, 19285 Holland Glade Road, Rehoboth Beach, where friends may visit beginning at 10 a.m.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, Lewes.
Visit Barb’s Life Memorial webpage and sign her virtual guestbook at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
